Their tails are evidence of this, and have evolved to assist Niles in swimming. The large keel serves as an excellent swimming tool. Many Nile owners provide large water containers for their monitors. Pharaoh and Delta have a 90 gallon horse trough in their room for swimming. Niles will soak and swim in the water container, and may also use it to hide when threatened.
Niles are very active and eat frequently.
Hatchlings will eat every day. Sub-adults and adults will eat several times a week. Be prepared to supply large amounts of food. Hatchlings will eat crickets, goldfish, pinkies, and anything else you give it. Larger Niles can be fed rodents, goldfish, crayfish, insects, etc.