Komodo Dragons
By: Colin Ball
What is a Komodo Dragon?
Komodo Dragons are some of the deadliest animals in the world. They can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh as much as 200 lbs. Some can run up to 12 MPH. They are the largest lizard in the entire world. They are found in the Indonesian islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Motang, and Padar. Some of these islands are volcanic. Komodos can be found everywhere from on the beach, to ridge tops.
How long have they been around?
Scientists have found fossils from about 4 million years ago. When compared to modern day Komodo Dragons, they're pretty much identical. Komodos are part of a small group of animals that you can say "look like a modern dinosaur."
Surviving
- Hunt with stealth
- Use razor sharp teeth to shread prey
- Have venomous saliva that help stun prey and make the kill easier
- Since they live on small islands, they are at the top of the food chain
Adaptations
- Much more powerful legs
- Bacteria in mouth that serves as venom
- Long forked tounge used for many things
- Very agressive towards all animals, including other Komodos
- Hard skin to help with rough terrain
- Small ears
- Not a powerful bite
- Powerful neck muscles to tear apart prey, makes up for weaker bite
- Long tail helps with balance during running
- Sharp claws alow it to rip apart prey