4 Facts About Komodo Dragons

Kaifiaz October 9, 2024Wildlife Tours

The Komodo Dragon, known as the largest living lizard on earth today. These lizards can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh 150 pounds, which is approximately the same weight as Cougar.

Despite a lot of myths surrounding this ancient animal, these are 4 big fascinating facts you may have never heard before about Komodo Dragons!

1). They are endangered species

From an article on the website Tree Hugger, the animal is believed to be endangered despite their strong presence. Such factors include habitat loss, human activities, and natural disasters play a huge part in causing their numbers to shrink. 

There are now fewer than 3,500 dragons in a few isolated and remote islands in Indonesia. 

2). Their tail has the same length as its body

What an interesting fact, right? Not only is their tail as long as the rest of their body, Komodo’s tail is strong enough to take down animals as large as deer or water buffalo. When hunting, Komodos often blend in and lie in wait for their prey to pass by before the attack. 

3). They can reproduce asexually 

In 2006, researchers found out that female Komodo Dragons can reproduce asexually through a process called Parthenogenesis, the development of offspring when an egg can develop into embryo without male fertilization. 

These reptiles can do both: reproducing sexually and asexually depending on the environmental conditions. Typically, in the mating season between May and August, they can lay around 20-30 eggs. 

4). They live on their own island

According to fossil records, Komodos migrated from Australia to Indonesia around 900,000 years ago, arrived on Flores Island. The Komodo Dragons now only live in four islands within the Komodo National Park, such as Rinca, Komodo, Gili Montang and Gili Dasami). 

Are you looking for an open trip to Komodo National Park to discover more about Komodo Dragons? If interested, you can book our open trip and experience the adventurous journey with Soe Besar Vanrei.