The Giant Reptiles of Bangkok
Sunday, 2026/01/25172 words3 minutes566 reads
Bangkok, the world's most visited city, is home to an unexpected urban wildlife - the water monitor lizards. These giant reptiles, once pushed to the city's outskirts, have adapted remarkably well to life in the bustling metropolis.
Lumphini Park, one of Bangkok's largest inner-city green spaces, is a prime spot for encountering these fascinating creatures. Visitors can observe the lizards basking in the sun or swimming in the park's ponds, often just a short distance from luxury hotels and busy shopping areas.
The lizards are not confined to parks alone. They can be found patrolling many of Bangkok's nearly 1,700 canals, from quiet residential areas to busy commercial zones. Their ability to thrive in urban environments has made them an unexpected part of the city's ecosystem and visitor experience.
While some locals view the lizards with suspicion due to old superstitions, attitudes are changing. Many young people and tourists find the lizards fascinating, even considering them lucky. This shift in perception is helping to transform these ancient reptiles into unlikely urban icons.
