Chester Zoo 

Komodo Dragon

Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis)

Varanus means 'to warn'. Some people believe these lizards give a warning when crocodiles are near. They live on the islands of Komodo, Rinca and Flores in Indonesia, as well as the other tiny surrounding islands. Although solitary, Komodo Dragons will gather together at a carcass. Once fully grown, male Komodo Dragons are slightly larger than females. Goats and deer are their main food, but they will take any meat. Females lay about 20 eggs which hatch after 8-9 months. Lifespan is up to 50 years. The Komodo Dragon is the largest lizard in the world!