有著長頸、結實尾巴與鋒利爪子的肉食性動物。適應能力極強，主要食用昆蟲、小型哺乳類動物、鳥類與腐肉。狩獵時會利用出色的嗅覺，並擅長攀爬陡峭高原，也能在水中游泳。
Goannas have long necks, powerful tails, and sharp claws and they are highly adaptable. They are carnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes insects, small mammals, birds, and carrion. Goannas are known for their keen sense of smell, which they use to track down prey. They are also capable climbers and swimmers.