(Varanus komodoensis)
of Adult:
Komodo dragons are the largest living species of lizard in the world. They are fierce predators which stalk and ambush their prey.
This species of lizard is long-necked, heavy-bodied and thick-tailed and is equipped with sharp claws. An adult Komodo dragon can subdue prey several times larger than itself.
Komodo dragons swallow smaller prey whole and shred large prey using their serrated teeth. Komodo dragon saliva infects wounds with deadly microorganisms which are nonpoisonous, but usually kills the animal. The smell of a dead or rotting animal can draw a Komodo dragon from up to 5 miles away.
Young Komodo dragons are tree dwellers for the first few years which protects them from their primary predator: adult Komodo dragons. At 5 or 6 years of age they are old enough to defend their own territory. These lizards are mostly terrestrial, but are good climbers and agile swimmers.