The Bengal monitor (Varanus bengalensis) is commonly observed in dry lowland regions in Sri Lanka. Adapted to a range of habitats—including jungles, rainforests, grasslands, and scrublands—these monitors are seldom seen above 500 meters in elevation. They can weigh over 10 kg and grow up to around 5 feet in length.

These lizards have a varied diet that includes small invertebrates, grubs, mice, ants, fruit, frogs, spiders, and occasionally bats. The Bengal monitor is equipped with several foraging adaptations including a purple, forked tongue with odour particle sensors to help them detect prey as well as long claws which allow them to climb trees with ease.

As ectotherms, Bengal monitors rely on sunlight to maintain optimal body temperature and functioning. Consequently, they are less active in the early morning and burrow at night to stay warm. Females dig shallow depressions to lay clutches of 8 to 32 eggs, covering them with soil for protection. Clutch size tends to correlate with age, with older females observed laying more eggs than younger ones.