Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis)

The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the largest living species of lizard, native to a few Indonesian islands including Komodo, Rinca, and Flores. This powerful predator can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length and weigh over 70 kilograms (150 pounds). Komodo dragons have a muscular build, rough scaly skin, and a long, forked tongue used for sensing their environment. They are carnivorous hunters and scavengers, feeding on large prey such as deer, wild boar, and even water buffalo, using their sharp teeth and venomous bite to incapacitate victims. Komodo dragons are solitary creatures with excellent stealth and speed for their size, playing a crucial role as apex predators in their island ecosystems.