Varanus komodoensis

(Ouwens, 1912)

Vernacular names
English : Komodo dragon
French : Varan de Komodo, Dragon de Komodo

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Varanidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The world’s largest monitor species, growing to around 3 meters in length for a weight of 70 kg (although this is exceptional). Very heavy body, large head, big claws. Coloration dark brownish grey. Skin looks very granular.

Range and habitat
The species is endemic to Indonesia, occurring in the Lesser Sundas islands of Flores, Komodo and Rinca. Lives in dry tropical semi-open habitats, both inland and close to beach.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species is listed as Endangered by IUCN. It occurs only in three islands and is threatened by poaching, loss of habitat and loss of prey.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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