Residents Shocked by 18-Second Video as Man Claims Ownership of 1-Meter Lizard

A man has come forward claiming to be the owner of the 1-meter-long large lizard that recently appeared around the Gwanggyo New Town area in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, causing anxiety among residents.

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 claim.

According to Suwon City on the 11th, the city and fire authorities conducted a joint search for the lizard for about three hours starting at 10:30 a.m. that day around the Wellbeing Town apartment complex in Gwanggyo New Town.

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.

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."

Notably, the appearance of A also led to the identification of the exact species of the lizard.

Initially, the lizard was presumed to be an Asian water monitor based on its appearance in a video filmed by a resident. However, with A identifying it as a "Nile monitor," search authorities have specified 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 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 primarily active during the day, and possess mild venom.

They prefer shaded areas or cool forest edges and feed on small animals such as fish, frogs, and mice.

Previously, rumors spread after a resident shared an 18-second video of the lizard's appearance in a group chat on the 7th, leaving residents who learned about it through media reports feeling anxious.

Although about 10 personnel from both organizations searched thoroughly with capture equipment, they failed to find the lizard.

The city plans to continue its joint search with related agencies while transferring the matter to the Han River Basin Environmental Office, which manages internationally endangered species.

In addition, the city decided to issue safety notices to apartments, schools, libraries, and sports facilities.

A city official said, "It has not yet been finally confirmed whether A is actually the owner of the lizard appearing in Gwanggyo, and whether the species is a Nile monitor," adding, "Detailed facts can be revealed after capturing the lizard and investigating the owner."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.