Komodo National Park

With many countries working to preserve what remains of the once wonderful natural resources, it is still no small feat to actually create a sanctuary for many endangered species, let alone one. Komodo National Park is able to give just that to the animals in its care.

The Komodo National Park, founded in 1980 and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, serves as a home for the Komodo dragons and many other species, marine or otherwise. The dragons were conserved by the people living in the islands as it has been passed on from their ancestors that harming these creatures is considered a taboo. The dragons, which are part of the monitor lizard family, are known to be the largest of its species. Their size ranges from two to three meters, with the males being larger than the females. These animals are opportunistic carnivores rather than being predators. In the early times, some of the dragons were dependent on their human neighbors for food.

The area consists of three large islands and other smaller ones near the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. While the dragons are the main attraction for many, there are other things also worth seeing. Inhabiting the islands are various species of reptiles, mammals, and fish. Exotic reefs could be explored during dives. Flying foxes or fruit bats are best seen at twilight, as they soar in the sky in legions.

In this unspoiled land, one would see natural beaches and forests that had changed little since its creation. Trekking or boating is the only means of going around the island. Apart from seeing the dragons, trekking allows one to unwind and enjoy nature at its best. During these guided trips, rangers may offer one to view the feeding of the dragons. Boating, on the other hand, offers the person an alternative aspect of the beauty of the landscape.

With all of nature has to offer, Komodo National Park is truly one of its kind.