▲ The 1-meter lizard spotted in Gwanggyo, Gyeonggi Province
A man has come forward claiming to be the owner of the 1-meter-long large lizard that recently caused anxiety among residents after appearing in the Gwanggyo New Town area of Suwon, Gyeonggi Province.
The man stated that the animal is a "Nile monitor" he lost a month ago, prompting search authorities to verify the facts based on his statement.
According to Suwon City on the 11th, the city and fire authorities conducted a joint search for about three hours starting at 10:30 a.m. that day around the apartment complex in the Wellbing Town area of Gwanggyo New Town to capture the lizard.
While the search was underway, a man identified as A, who claimed to be the owner of the lizard, voluntarily approached city officials at the scene.
Man A reportedly told city officials, "That lizard is my pet that I lost about a month ago, and I have been searching the neighborhood for it ever since."
In particular, the appearance of Man A also led to the precise species of the lizard being newly identified.
Initially, the lizard was presumed to be an Asian water monitor based on its appearance in a video filmed by residents, but after Man A, who claimed to be the owner, identified it as a "Nile monitor," search authorities have targeted the species as a Nile monitor and are preparing follow-up measures.
Nile monitors are listed as CITES Appendix II species (internationally endangered species), requiring owners to report the transfer and acquisition to the regional environmental office upon adoption.
Failure to complete the relevant reporting procedures can result in a fine of up to 1 million won.
However, there are no regulations regarding breeding facilities, making them popular as pets.
Adult Nile monitors grow to 1.5 to 2 meters in length, are mostly active during the day, and possess weak venom.
They prefer shady spots or cool forest edges and feed on small animals such as fish, frogs, and rats.
Previously on the 7th, a resident shared an 18-second video of the lizard's appearance in a group chat, spreading rumors, and residents who learned about it through media reports that day have been feeling uneasy.
Although about 10 personnel from both organizations searched thoroughly with capture equipment, they ultimately failed to find the lizard.
The city plans to continue its joint search with related organizations while transferring the case to the Han River Basin Environmental Office, which manages internationally endangered species.
In addition, it has decided to issue safety notices to apartments, schools, libraries, and sports facilities.
A city official said, "It has not been finally confirmed whether Man A is actually the owner of the lizard appearing in Gwanggyo, and whether the species is a Nile monitor," adding, "Detailed information can be revealed after investigating the capture of the lizard and its owner."
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