Gus the Goanna

Today we found out why we have been getting no eggs from the chooks – the culprit – a Goanna named Gus! As beautiful as he is we are missing our eggs – fried, scrambled or in cakes for morning tea.

Goannas are quite common on Glenwood but it’s not like you see them every day. They are actually a close relative of Komodo dragon and are one of the largest lizards in the world. On average they grow to about 1.4 metres (4.6 feet) in length and 5.6kg (13 pounds) in weight but we have seen them much larger!

Although they seem pretty scary due to their size and sharp claws, usually when you come across one, the Goanna will run and climb the nearest tree until it is safe again.

Goanna’s can live for up to 40 years in the wild and are carnivores. They eat insects, other lizards, small mammals, birds and eggs .... of the chicken variety as we found out!

Until next time – stay safe and happy