One of the Komodo dragon’s favorite prey is the Timor deer. Komodo dragons have the smallest natural range of all the large predators. They can be found on Komodo, Gili Dasami, Gili Montang, Rinca, and Flores Island.

These predatory lizards inhabit just five islands, four of which are within Komodo National Park in Indonesia. In their native range, these interesting animals remain at lower elevations, avoiding the higher, mountainous cloud forests on the Indonesian islands they inhabit. The islands they live on have a range of different ecosystems, from grasslands and savannas, to dense forests. Komodo dragons inhabit volcanic islands with rugged, hilly terrain.

The ability to asexually reproduce, or produce offspring without mating, is called “parthenogenesis.” Despite the fact no male was ever present, 7 of her eggs hatched! Since then, a number of Komodo dragons in zoos have exhibited this ability. She had not lived with, nor interacted with, any male Komodo dragon. Parthenogenesis – On Decema female Komodo dragon named Flora laid 11 unfertilized eggs.To avoid becoming lunch, the younger and smaller animals usually spend most of their time in trees. Until they reach their full adult size, young dragons are in danger of being eaten by their larger neighbors. Little Lizards Beware – Though they mostly prefer carrion, Komodo dragons are also known to cannibalize younger Komodo dragons.He finds the unfortunate meal by tasting the air with his long forked tongue. He leisurely spends the next few days tagging along, waiting for the animal to weaken. Tasting the Air – After biting prey, an adult Komodo dragon simply has to follow the animal at a distance.Whether from bacteria or venom the dragon produces, their bite is deadly to their prey. Scientists today are not so sure if this is the case. Previously, it was believed that the multitude of bacteria in the dragon’s mouth caused secondary infections. Debate on Deadly Venom – Scientists are at a crossroads on just where the deadly venom in Komodo dragon saliva comes from.There are virtually endless interesting tidbits dealing with hunting and survival amongst Komodo dragons.

These ferocious predators are known for their venomous bite and tenacious hunting vigor.

Komodo comodo dragon