4 The second incident was also of a zookeeper bitten on the right hand, by a juvenile dragon, sustaining minor lacerations that healed without complications. The first of a zookeeper sustaining a bite to the left small finger by a juvenile dragon that subsequently led to a mallet finger injury. 18 There are currently only 2 published case reports of Komodo dragon bites in the United States. ![]() In addition, nonnative monitor lizards have become established in Florida, after being brought to the United States and released into the wild, thereby increasing the likelihood of human interactions. ![]() 14 However, Komodo dragons are popular exhibits in zoos throughout the United States, which pose a risk to the zookeepers that care for them. 3Īlthough there are reports of multiple attacks on humans at Komodo National Park, Indonesia, reports of attacks in the United States are rare occurrences. In addition to direct physical trauma, it has been hypothesized that pathogenic bacteria and/or venom, from the bite, can contribute to the ultimate demise of its prey. ![]() 3, 5 The mechanism with which the dragon is capable of killing such large prey is an area of interest and debate. 5 Because of their large size, these lizards feed on prey that equal or exceed their own mass, including water buffalo, pigs, and deer. 3 They are known for being the world’s largest lizard, reaching a mass of up to 90 kg and a length of 3 meters. The Komodo dragon ( Varanus komodoensis) is a carnivorous varanid lizard that is native to the islands of Indonesia.
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