A worker lost part of a finger after a lizard bit him while he was trying to give it water.
Footage shows the man attempting to offer the reptile a drink while it rested among leaves.
He could be seen pouring water from a bottle over the lizard when it suddenly lunged and sunk its teeth into his hand.
The reptile remained clamped onto his fingers as the subcontracted worker recoiled in a park in Rondonópolis, Brazil, on Tuesday (9 May).
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The man, José Olímpio, was assisted by a colleague and taken to a local urgent treatment centre.
Due to the severity of the injury, he underwent surgery the same day, with part of one of his fingers amputated.
The lizard seen in the footage is a black-and-white tegu (Salvator merianae), considered the largest lizard in Brazil.
Its body can reach around 50cm (20in), but including the tail, some individuals can grow up to 2m (7ft).
An omnivore, it feeds on carrion, insects, birds, rodents, amphibians, other lizards, eggs, fruit and leaves.
It also plays an important role in seed dispersal and ecosystem maintenance, as reported by Need To Know.
Jefferson Marcelo, of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, said: “The animal went to where the leaves were specifically to protect itself from a potential predator.
“Even though the man was not there to prey on it, the animal doesn’t understand that distinction.
“As the man got closer, it felt cornered, and when he came even closer, it ended up attacking.
“This is the natural behaviour of an animal that feels trapped and threatened.”
The biologist added: “People should avoid touching the animal, especially with their hands.
“If they want to leave food or water, it’s best to place it near the animal and step away, otherwise it won’t eat or drink.
“If the animal appears, the best option is to call the fire brigade or environmental police.”
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