Komodo Dragon By: Nathan Payne

Classification and Description Varanus Komodoensis Reptile 8ft. to 10ft., 250lbs. To 300lbs. Gray, brown or reddish (adults)

Biome Indonesia Dry and rocky Hardly any rain Doesn’t migrate

Life Cycle 20 to 30 eggs Incubates 9 months Carnivore 30+ years

Adaptations Excellent swimmers Curved teeth prevent prey escape Bits of bone in skin prevent injury Can replace teeth

Reasons for Endangered Status Wild boars eat eggs Deforestation Poached for skins Volcanic activity

Conservation 4,000 to 5,000 left Biome is national park Denver zoo breeding programs Raise money, tell people

Fun Facts Skin made of keratin Can’t sweat because of armor Gums bleed to make spit red Digs up dead people and eats them

Resources ConsumeReports.org Wikipedia Darling, Kathy, Komodo dragons Martin, James, Giant Lizards of Indonesia