Komodo Dragon
The Komodo Dragon is probably the closest thing we will ever see to a real dragon! It grows up to a massive 10 feet long and 300 pounds. This is like 2 times the size of a grown up human!
The Komodo Dragon has brown and yellow scales all over its body, which helps them blend into their surroundings. Their 60 sharp teeth make them extra s-s-scary but also help them take big bites of their prey. Their ability to ambush prey also helps them devour their food very quickly. They even run up to 12 miles per hour to catch their food FAST. These beasts are at the very top of the food chain!
These magnificent animals are found in Indonesia. Since there are fewer and fewer of them in the wild, they are protected under the Indonesian law.
Let’s listen in on Luna and Rio’s bravery during this Komodo Dragon adventure.
It’s hard to think of just one out of this world fact about these modern day dragons!
The Komodo Dragon has two very cool features that help them with their carnivorous (meat eating) feasts. Not only do these lizards have the ability to eat up to 80% of their body weight in one meal, they can continue to breathe while swallowing huge bites. Their throat has a part that moves forward so they can keep on breathing even if swallowing takes some time!
Time for a Challenge
Let’s feed the Komodo dragon!
Gather a bucket or small bin or basket and some balls or beanbags. Balls of paper work too!
Print off the Komodo Dragon picture below.
Tape the dragon to your bin.
Take turns with a friend tossing the “food” into the dragon’s mouth. Who can feed it the most?
Don’t forget to share!! #heymrjim
Click to download!
“Komodo Dragon.” Ducksters, https://www.ducksters.com/animals/komodo_dragon.php.