Hi again crocdoc2,
I know I`ve heard several quite well known scientists describe varanids as being at the (imaginary) "top" of evolution in reptiles, pretty sure Alexej Tsellarius mentioned it to me some time ago, but don`t quote me on that just now, I haven`t at this time found/looked for his letters (to me). However, George Horn certainly did say as much in Mertensiella, advances in Monitor Research (2)1999, in his article: "Evolutionary Efficiency and success in Monitors". (pages 167 to 180).

: "It is the aim of this contribution to show that varanids are at the top of the evolution of reptiles, and in many cases they can be compared to mammals by means of behavioral characters they exhibit in the wild or in captivity"... .
I think you made an excellent point that there really is no "top", and in my case at least (perhaps George`s also), we clearly forgot about crocodilians!
In which case, I`ll "adjust" my comments to "varanids are certainly among the most advanced extant reptiles, particularly in terms of their physical/ and (apparently) behavioural capabilities".... (If you want to cricise that please do, but be gentle)!
And on a side note; it`s nice to see you contributing here, as I know you don`t visit too many forums these days. (That`s a serious comment)!

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