Komodo Dragons
The world's largest living reptile, the Komodo Dragon is found only on the Indonesian Islands of Komodo, Rintja, Padar and Flores. These giants reach up to three meters in length or more, and can weigh up to 126 kg. Despite their enormous size they are quick hunters, who often feed on wild boar and deer. They are also surprisingly good climbers. These giant lizards were discovered in the early 1900's, and are now thought to be the animal that sparked the many Chinese myths and works of art that feature dangerous man-eating dragons.

Carrion, which is a bacteria from dead or decaying animals, can be found in large amounts in Komodo Dragon's mouths. These deadly amounts of bacteria are used by the Komodo as a hunting and defense mechanism, as when they bite their prey it becomes infected and usually dies as a result of bacteria poisoning. Even animals that have escaped alive with only a bite are almost certain to perish shortly because of the deadly bacteria now coursing through them.

Komodo Dragons are dangerous beasts, and many human deaths have been reported after being attacked by these hunters.

The number of Komodo dragons in the world is fairly stable at around 5000. They are however under close surveillance by scientists. Their number did see a decline in earlier years due to poaching and capturing, but it seems to have steadied itself in recent years as a result of conservation efforts.