Meet Big Al, the Giant Monitor Lizard Who Can Potentially Grow Up to 7 Feet Long
If your social feeds haven’t introduced you to Big Al yet, get ready. A zoo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, just dropped what might be the most chaotic and delightful reptile content of the year — and the internet is absolutely eating it up.
The Reptile Adventure Zoo in Sioux Falls recently announced the arrival of Big Al, a black throat monitor lizard whose presence is already making him a star. The zoo’s Facebook post included a video of Big Al doing what can only be described as full reptile chaos — walking around the zoo, standing up on his hind legs and pressing his hands against the glass of other reptile cages to peek inside. Just a giant lizard window-shopping his neighbors like he’s browsing a buffet menu.
Big Al’s Arrival to Reptile Adventure Zoo Is Epic
“Big Al just arrived and is already showing off that powerful, prehistoric presence that makes this species so captivating,” the zoo wrote alongside the post. “Watching Big Al explore his new habitat has been absolutely mesmerizing. He’s already claimed his favorite spot and we’re pretty sure he’s going to become a fan favorite FAST.”
The zoo also said the in-person experience goes beyond what any video can capture. “Seeing him in person hits different, his size and presence are absolutely jaw-dropping,” the Facebook post said.
Big Al’s Zookeeper Delivers the Line of the Year
The viral video also features a zookeeper whose commentary deserves its own fan base. Nobody wants a cranky lizard on their hands — literally — and the keeper’s careful approach to handling Big Al shows exactly why patience matters. In one clip, the keeper is seen petting Big Al on the back while wearing gloves, explaining the method behind the hands-on approach.
“This kind of gets him used to getting interacted with before I pick him up as opposed to if I go in there right away and try to pick him up, he might not be as comfortable with that,” the zookeeper said.
Then comes the moment. Big Al, standing tall on his hind legs, is pressed up against the glass of another reptile’s tank, giving its occupant what we can only assume is the fright of a lifetime. The zookeeper grabs him and delivers the line of the year.
“Lets not give that guy PTSD. You’re really scary to other lizards.”
How Big Do Black Throat Monitors Get?
The numbers on Big Al’s species are wild. Black throat monitor lizards can grow up to 7 feet long and weigh as much as 60 pounds, according to Oakland Zoo. They are among the heaviest-bodied lizards in Africa. Big Al is a member of the monitor lizard family, and the Reptile Adventure Zoo noted that black throat monitors are “one of the longest monitor species in the world.”
These lizards are native to East Africa, especially Tanzania. They are carnivorous and opportunistic feeders, eating insects, eggs, small mammals, birds and other reptiles, as well as carrion, according to Oakland Zoo. They use their forked tongues to detect scents and have strong limbs, sharp claws, serrated teeth and powerful tails used for defense.
Every other reptile in that zoo is right to be nervous when Big Al comes pressing his face against the glass.
The Sioux Falls Zoo Behind Big Al’s Viral Moment
The Reptile Adventure Zoo celebrated its grand opening in December 2025, and it’s already stacking up serious personality. The space in Sioux Falls was formerly a DMV, which is honestly the most dramatic glow-up a building has ever experienced. Owner Andrew Adam described the zoo’s collection to Dakota News Now.
“We have 13 alligators. We have really big snakes, really small snakes. We have lizards and turtles, and tortoises. We also have the amphibians, as far as frogs, toads, we have a bunch of stuff that people probably haven’t heard about, from caecilians and worm lizards and sirens and all types of stuff that I really think people will enjoy seeing and getting to know,” said Andrew Adam, owner of the Reptile Adventure Zoo, per Dakota News Now.
Andrew Adam said the zoo is designed for everyone — even people who aren’t hardcore reptile fans.
“It’s just a cool experience, even for the people that aren’t super into reptiles. If you like going to any zoo, aquarium, science center type thing, this is very similar, very kid-friendly, with our sandbox and interactive animal things. Very educational,” said Adam.
How to Visit Big Al at Reptile Adventure Zoo
If you want to see Big Al in person — and honestly, who wouldn’t at this point — the Reptile Adventure Zoo in Sioux Falls makes it easy. Visits can be booked at reptileadventurezoo.com, and the zoo offers live presentations every 30 minutes. Most families spend about 45 minutes exploring.
Just maybe don’t stand too close to the glass. Big Al’s already proven he has no problem getting up in your face.
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.
