A 13-year-old Komodo dragon named Taro has made his public debut at the Higashiyama Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Nagoya, becoming the sole representative of his species on display in Japan. As of Friday, visitors can now observe this remarkable reptile, the largest living species of lizard, up close.
Previously, Komodo dragons could be found at Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo and a few other facilities across the country. However, the Nagoya zoo now holds the unique distinction of being the only location in Japan where these impressive creatures can be viewed.
Taro, who stretches 2.7 meters in length and weighs 50 kilograms, was born as part of an international breeding program. His parent was loaned from Ueno Zoo to the Singapore Zoo, where Taro was hatched. In mid-July, he returned to Japan and settled into his new home at Higashiyama Zoo.
According to zoo officials, Taro has quickly adapted to his new environment, responding well to the zookeepers’ calls. During his official introduction to the media on Thursday, Taro appeared to be in excellent health, even indulging in a meal of a mouse in front of the cameras.
“He has a charming face, and we hope visitors will grow fond of Taro,” one of the zookeepers shared, expressing their affection for the Komodo dragon.
Taro’s presence at the Higashiyama Zoo & Botanical Gardens not only adds to the zoo’s diverse collection but also offers a rare opportunity for the public to witness one of nature’s most fascinating creatures.