Weird reptile appears in Egypt, scares people

Al Bawaba

29-01-2025

ALBAWABA - An unusual reptile was spotted in Egypt spreading fears among citizens, who posted photos of the animal on social media.
The Egyptian Ministry of Environment commented on the animal's appearance in the Ismailia Canal, which caused panic amid fears of the spread of reptiles in the area.
The ministry in Egypt confirmed that the animal was spotted in the Ismailia Canal, which people claimed to be a "Nile Crocodile." However, people are still fear the spread of crocodiles in the governorates.
The Ministry of Environment said in a statement that an urgent committee was formed in full cooperation and coordination with the Qalyubia Governorate, the Greater Cairo branch of the Environmental Affairs Agency, and the ministry's biodiversity experts to determine the truth behind the video circulated and deal with the situation quickly to ensure the safety of citizens and the protection of wildlife.
Nile monitor. (Shutterstock)
The Minister of Environment explained that the inspection and videos documenting the appearance of the animal adding that it is a "Nile Monitor" and that it is considered a harmless reptile that does not attack humans or pose any danger to them, plants, or animals.
The animal also lives in the Nile River and its branching canals throughout the republic. The Nile Monitor feeds on reptiles, birds and carrion. Its length ranges from 250 cm to more than a meter.
The ministry also confirmed that despite that it is a large reptile, however, it avoids reaching humans.