Jakarta – The Nusa Tenggara Timur Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA NTT) has released a Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) into the wild at Watu Pajang Forest, Nampar Sepang Village, Sambi Rampas District, East Manggarai Regency, NTT.
“We have just released a Komodo dragon, a protected wild animal,” said Yohanes Marung, Head of the Watu Nggong Resort under the KSDA Regional II Ruteng division, as quoted by Antara on Friday (January 3, 2025).
He explained that the release was conducted in Watu Pajang Forest, a habitat of the Komodo dragon and a major attraction for tourists visiting NTT.
Yohanes also emphasized that the release was carried out in accordance with existing regulations. The protected wild animal was released in good health and intact condition.
He added that the released Komodo dragon measured 197 cm in length and weighed 20 kilograms.
Meanwhile, Kalpataru Environmental Advocate Arsyad revealed that the Komodo dragon was handed over by local residents on Thursday (December 26) to BBKSDA and subsequently released back into the wild.
“The Komodo dragon was received alive but unable to move its left hind leg, presumably due to being hit by a passing vehicle,” said Arsyad.
Following the handover, care and treatment were immediately provided to ensure the Komodo dragon’s safety and health.
The release process adhered to Government Regulation No. 7 of 1999 on the Preservation of Plant and Animal Species and Government Regulation No. 8 of 1999 on the Utilization of Wild Plant and Animal Species.
