Friday, May 4, 2007

In Pursuit of Komodo Dragons in Komodo Island

The biggest lizard in this world, it's sometimes called komodo dragon. There is nothing dragonlike about the komodo, though. Admittedly a komodo (Varanus komodoensis) is huge an adult can grow to be 3 meters high with approximately 70 kgs in weight, but it is not as fierce as many people thought. For instance, komodo dragons do not pursue their preys actively or show vicious streak in their coup de grace. Checking on a komodo dragon's mouth and teeth must be every dentist's nightmare, for they are incredibly smelly and full of germs. A komodo dragon usually eats the youngs/wounded animals. But bigger komodo dragons are known to attack bigger livestocks. A bite from a komodo dragon is enough. Then the komodo dragon will follow its prey for days, if necessary. The germs are bound to take effect. When the prey dies, the komodo dragon feasts.
Located between Sumbawa and Flores island, Komodo National Park was founded as a conservation for komodo dragons. Six years after the establishment in 1980, UNESCO declared that this park is a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve. Komodo
National Park consists of three main islands, i.e. Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, also other smaller islands. One of the richest marine environments, this park is also the home for at least 1,000 species of fish, hundreds of species of reef-building, coral, and 70 types of sponges. You can also find sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and dugongs in this park.

Getting There
You can go to Lombok or Flores island first, then embarkbark on a boat/ship to this island.
Where to Stay
You can contact the above tour operators for more information. You can also plan to stay in Bali, and spend a whole day for visiting Komodo Island.
Moving AroundOn foot. If you join a tour, the tour will see to everything?including the transportation.

Dining Guide
Traditional restaurants and small cafes.
Souvenir TipsWooden carving resembling komodo and other animals.

Other Things to See or Do
-See komodo dragons live even in action, if you're lucky enough to watch their feeding time (officers of this park supply food like fresh chicken to komodo dragons).
-Marvel at the diversity of the plants and animals.
-Swim on the pristine beaches.
-Snorkel to glimpse the diversity of the marine life.
-Visit a traditional village in order to observe their way of life.


Travel Tips
-Since most people in this place speak only Bahasa, it is essential that you learn a few useful phrases in Bahasa Indonesia.
-Join a tour to save your time and energy.
-Bring along sunblock, comfortable clothes, shades and hats.

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