The number of animals at Bali Safari Park is increasing. In March 2022, Bali Safari Park located on Jalan Bypass Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra, Serongga Village, Gianyar, Bali, succeeded in incubating Komodo dragons. “Here is exciting news as well as proud because Bali Safari Park is the first animal conservation institution in Bali that have successfully bred this large lizard,” said Assistant Curator of Bali Safari Park, Ida Ayu Ari Janiawati, and Bali Safari Park Veterinarian, Yohana Kusumaningtyas, on Thursday (Mar 24).

The hatching of Komodo dragons is one clear proof of the success achieved by Bali Safari Park after previously being successful with the birth of Hyena, Zebra and Hippo babies at the end of 2021. “This is the success of breeding Komodo dragons naturally and being the first in Bali. This success can be a testament to the seriousness of Bali Safari Park to become the best conservation institution in Bali. Hopefully, the komodo dragons develop well and they can breed again in Bali Safari Park,” she added.

Of course, the success of the conservation program is also realized due to the support from all levels of society who are never tired of supporting animal conservation activities in Bali. Komodo babies that have not even been one month old are now still being treated intensively by the Bali Safari Park Veterinarian team. “Currently, the condition of the Komodo dragons is healthy and active. Feeding is done two times a week. The amount of feed given is adjusted to the weight of each pup. Weighing is done every two weeks,” explained the Bali Safari Park Veterinarian, Yohana Kusumaningtyas.

Komodo is one of the largest lizards in the world having a natural habitat in the Province of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. This animal can be found on the Islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Motang and Padar. Currently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists Komodo as a species that is vulnerable to extinction.

Volcanic activity, earthquakes, habitat destruction and poaching are thought to be the main causes of the decline in the Komodo dragon population. The Indonesian government later determined that Komodo is a protected species. At Bali Safari Park, Komodo dragon is one of the animals cared for and bred for conservation purposes in order to maintain their sustainability in the wild. (BTN/015)