Varanus komodoensis

Komodo dragons are dominant predators in their ecosystem, capable of running swiftly in short bursts to catch prey. They have a unique hunting strategy that involves biting prey and retreating while the prey weakens from venom, eventually succumbing to their injuries.

The breeding season starts between May and August. Females lay their eggs in September, choosing to nest in strategic locations such as the abandoned nests of megapodes. The incubation period lasts approximately eight months.

These lizards are known for their impressive size, reaching up to 3 meters in length and weighing over 70kg. They possess sharp claws, a strong tail used for defense, and venom glands that deliver toxins to subdue their prey.

Komodo dragons are believed to have evolved in Australia and migrated to their current range in Indonesia. Fossil evidence suggests their ancestors were present around 3.8 million years ago.

The Komodo dragon is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, with an estimated wild population of less than 2,500 adults. Their numbers are declining due to habitat loss, human encroachment, and climate change.