A foreign tourist dining at a restaurant in Udon Thani on May 27, 2025, reportedly mistook a large water monitor lizard for a crocodile, prompting a call to local emergency services. The incident occurred around 4:00 p.m. at the Rong Rod restaurant located on the city bypass road in Ban Deua community.
The Udon Thani Municipal Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Unit responded to the call and arrived to find the reptile hiding behind the beverage counter of the single-story restaurant. Staff quickly cleared crates and glassware to allow the rescue team access. Although the lizard initially broke free from a capture noose, it was eventually secured.
Measuring approximately 1.3 meters in length and weighing close to 10 kilograms, the lizard showed signs of having lived in the nearby eastern drainage canal, as evidenced by leeches on its body. The animal was later released into a forested area away from residential zones.
Restaurant staff recounted the moment of confusion when the tourist exclaimed “crocodile” after spotting the lizard through a glass partition. According to a 22-year-old employee, previous incidents had involved snakes, but this was the first time a large reptile of this kind had entered the premises. Fearful of handling the creature himself, he contacted authorities.
Officials explained the distinction between water monitors and Bengal monitors, noting differences in snout shape. Water monitors, known for their omnivorous diet and powerful tails, typically inhabit canals and streams and are rarely seen in populated areas.
The event drew attention from both staff and patrons. Present at the scene were municipal officials and rescue workers who ensured the reptile’s safe removal.
