We were only here for a few hours due to schedule changes because of coronovirus and had to wear masks while on the island.
We took a short hike and observed 3 Komodo dragons in their natural environment. These lizards dominate the island. Komodo dragons hunt and ambush prey including invertebrates, birds, and mammals. It has been claimed that they have a venomous bite; there are two glands in the lower jaw which secrete several toxic proteins. The biological significance of these proteins is disputed, but the glands have been shown to secrete an anticoagulant. Komodo dragons’ group behavior in hunting is exceptional in the reptile world. The diet of big Komodo dragons mainly consists of deer, water buffalo, and wild pigs, though they also eat considerable amounts of carrion. Komodo dragons have been known to occasionally attack humans. Our guides carried large forked sticks to ward off attacks, but I don’t know how effective they would have been. Fortunately, the dragons only eat once a month or so and apparently weren’t hungry today. Two of the dragons did not change position at all and the third moved very slowly even though they can run up to 13 mph. They are also very good swimmers.
Retirement Travels 