Key Information
Megalania
| Species | Varanus priscus |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Weight | 710 to 1,370 lb |
| Length | 15 to 23 ft |
| Timescale | Late Cretaceous |
| Classification | Reptilia > Squamata > Varanindae |
| Similar Species | Komodo Dragon |
Learning Point
- Megalania was a species of giant monitor lizard, one that grew to gigantic proportions, though the lack of complete fossil skeletons (relying mainly on vertebrae), make it hard to get an accurate measurement of its size.
Project
- Draw a picture of Megalania.
- Overview
- X-Ray
Location
| Confirmed | Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia |
Fun Facts
- The name Megalania comes from Greek words meaning “great roamer” and not “great butcher” as some have misunderstood the meaning of the name.
- The lack of complete or nearly complete fossil skeletons has made it difficult to determine the exact dimensions of Megalania.
- It has long been suggested it was the apex predator in Australia, but that has more recently been called into question with animals the marsupial lion also being dominant.
- Although many speculate that Megalania had venom, there is no direct evidence that it did.
Past Lessons
| 50 | April 17, 2023 | (North America) |
| 136 | February 5, 2024 | (North America) |