Reading Comprehension Test 16

The Komodo dragon, found in the Indonesian islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, and Gili Motang, is the world’s largest lizard. These giants can reach up to 10 feet in length and weigh over 300 pounds! Komodo dragons are apex predators, meaning they sit at the top of their food chain. They are solitary hunters, relying on a keen sense of smell and powerful legs to stalk prey like deer, wild boar, and even water buffalo. Komodo dragons have a unique hunting strategy – they deliver a potent bite laced with venom from specialized glands in their lower jaw. This venom prevents blood clotting and can cause shock, leading to the prey’s eventual demise. The Komodo dragon then patiently waits for its victim to weaken before using its powerful sense of smell to track down the carcass and consume it whole.

Komodo dragons are fascinating reptiles, but their conservation status is concerning. Habitat loss due to human activity and natural disasters like volcanic eruptions threaten their dwindling populations. Additionally, Komodo dragons are slow breeders, laying only a handful of eggs each year. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent creatures, including habitat restoration programs and antipoaching initiatives.