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Watch: Did You Know How Playful Komodo Dragons Can Be?

The Komodo dragon Varanus komodoensis raised the head with open mouth. It is the biggest living lizard in the world. Island Rinca. Indonesia.
The Komodo dragon Varanus komodoensis raised the head with open mouth. It is the biggest living lizard in the world. Island Rinca. Indonesia. Image via Deposit Photos
Playful antics of Komodo Dragons

Did you know Komodo Dragons also have a playful side? Underneath all that armour theres a soft side that is never shown! Join us as we explore the Komodo Dragons playful behaviors and activities they enjoy engaging in.

Masters of Lighthearted Games

Komodo dragon with the forked tongue sniff air. Close up portrait. The Komodo dragon, scientific name: Varanus komodoensis. Indonesia.
Komodo dragon with the forked tongue sniff air. Close up portrait. The Komodo dragon, scientific name: Varanus komodoensis. Indonesia. Image via Deposit Photos

Despite their fierce reputation, Komodo dragons have been seen in acts of playful behaviors. These include chasing each other and taking part in mock battles. These playful interactions help them develop social bonds. They also improve their hunting skills!

Komodo Dragons at Play

Komodo Dragons
The fighting Komodo dragons for domination. The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), also known as the Komodo monitor, is the biggest living lizard in the world, Indonesia. Image via Deposit Photos

Research has shown that juvenile Komodo dragons like playful behaviors. Behaviors such as wrestling with siblings. Or exploring their surroundings with curiosity. These playful actions are not only a form of exercise but also a lesson learnt in practicing essential survival skills.

Surprising Discoveries

Komodo Dragon
Komodo Dragon. Image via Deposit Photos

Scientists have documented scenes where Komodo dragons engage in object play. The scenes capture activities such as rolling objects like stones or sticks. This playful behavior tell us there is a level of intelligence and cognitive flexibility previously underestimated in these magnificent beasts!

Playful Nature of Komodo Dragons

Komodo Dragon
Komodo Dragon with tongue out. Image via Deposit Photos

Observations in captivity have proven that Komodo dragons enjoy interactive toys. They also take part in activities provided by caretakers. From chasing balls to investigating new scents, these activities stimulate their minds. The games keep them mentally engaged! This highlights their playful nature beyond the wild.

Wrap Up

Komodo dragon sniffs the air with his forked tongue.. Scientific name: Varanus komodoensis. Biggest in the world living lizard in natural habitat. Island Rinca.
Komodo dragon sniffs the air with his forked tongue.. Scientific name: Varanus komodoensis. Biggest in the world living lizard in natural habitat. Island Rinca. Image by Deposit Photos

So, beyond the terrifying reputation of these dragons, they also have a soft side. As the old tale goes, never be too quick to judge a book by its cover!

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