Large lizard found abandoned

CHRISTMAS, Fla., Nov. 26 (UPI) -- A Christmas, Fla., landlord said he discovered a large Nile monitor lizard abandoned in a mobile home filled with rats.

The landlord, who discovered the animal Saturday, called the Critter Rescue service in Christmas to take custody of the lizard, WKMG-TV, Orlando, Fla., reported Monday.

Critter Rescue manager Shirley Cannan told the television station that the lizard had been made very aggressive by its poor living conditions. Officials said monitor lizards have been known to attack small pets and children.

Cannan said the lizard may be bound for a zoo or other facility outfitted to deal with wild animals.