The mouth of a Komodo dragon (varanus komodoensis) in Komodo National Park contains a dangerous bacterial saliva that can infect and kill even large prey once bitten. The famed lizards, also known as Komodo monitors or Ora, are the largest lizards in the world and can grow as long as three meters and weigh over one hundred kilograms. The dragons are highly endangered, with less than 6000 living on a few islands in eastern Indonesia. Komodo National Park was formed in 1980 primarily to protect these unique creatures. Nusa Tenggara Timor, Indonesia. Image: Danzer_031199. To discuss use of this photo, please contact Erick at erick@erickdanzer.com. For more information, please visit Erick's homepage at www.erickdanzer.com. @ Erick Danzer, all rights reserved. |