12 interesting facts about Komodo Dragon

1. Komodo dragons are the largest breed of lizards existing in the world today.
2. Its exceptional size is attributed to its low metabolic rate and also to the fact that there are no other carnivorous species in its habitat to fill its role and place on the islands.
3. The very existence of this breed of animal was unknown to mankind until about 100 years ago.
4. The average being 6 feet, Komodo are known to grow to an amazing 10 feet.
5. They have got a very strong sense of smell and use flickering movements of their tongue to catch the scent of their prey.
6. Diurnal in nature, these animals typically likes to hunt during the day-time.
7. They have a very unique way of killing its prey as they swallow their entire catch. Komodo are also known to swallow a whole pig.
   
8. These dragons are known to run for a distance of about 18 kph or 11 mph in short bursts.
9. A peculiar characteristic of these animals is that its oral cavity has the ideal environment for the culture and sustenance of virulent bacteria.
10. The food of choice for these animals is rotten meat or carcasses. It is for this reason that bacteria from the carrion gets settled in their oral cavity and whenever an animal gets bitten by the dragon, they get serious infections. Such infections can even be fatal if not treated promptly.
11. These dragons are known to run for a distance of about 18 kph or 11 mph in short bursts.
12. It is estimated that a fully grown Komodo dragon can consume up to 80% of its body weight in a single feeding.