GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Greensboro Science Center announced the arrival of a three-year-old Komodo dragon.
A male Komodo dragon named Hannibal arrived from the Denver Zoo on Nov. 8.
The dinosaur exhibit was renovated, so the Komodo dragon exhibit could be built in 2017. The GSC's first Komodo dragon, Drogo, was housed in the exhibit until he died in April.
"I am very excited to have the opportunity to care for our new Komodo dragon, Hannibal! He already reminds me so much of Drogo, as he is very curious," says Audrey Stallings, Lead Komodo Dragon Keeper. "I am excited to use the knowledge I have gained over the last 6 years to care for Hannibal and look forward to learning new things as well," Stallings added.
Hannibal is still getting used to his new home and will not be viewed by the public at this time. Be sure to follow the GSC on social media for updates on Hannibal.
More on Komodo dragons
According to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, these giant lizards are known for running at speeds up to 13 miles per hour. They can swallow huge chunks of food due to the muscles in their jaws.
When Komodos are threatened, they will throw up whatever is in their stomach to lessen their weight, so they can run faster. Their stomachs will also expand up to 80 percent of their body weight so they can consume larger meals.
Did you know Komodos also use their tongue to sample the air and detect when food is nearby? They use their forked tongues to activate an organ on the roof of their mouths where chemical analyzers can smell their prey through airborne molecules.
Scientists say Komodo dragons can live about 30 years in the wild, but they are still studying this.
