The Komodo Dragon has a history of attacking humans. Beware of getting too close, and if you are visiting via the park's office which you should, ask for a guide and stick close to him. Do not wander off or do anything without his consent. Komodos may approach the guest rest area during daily feeding time, but in this time, find a building which are usually elevated and stay clear from the railings. Komodos can and will jump to obtain food if necessary. Park rangers are usually present at these events and will deflect any Komodos trying to get in which they can do.
You may be given a large pole with a split on the end, forming a "Y" shape. This can be used as a walking pole or for moving things on your path - however, if wild animals threaten, it can be used as a last form of defense despite being hardly useful against komodos. Overall, try keeping a watchful eye and steer clear of any wildlife.
Komodos are extremely dangerous if close enough. They can run faster than humans and accelerate very quickly, so best not approach if necessary. Jumping into water as Komodos are often found near the beach too doesn't help either, as they can swim faster than humans, can dive, and can also swim against strong currents in fact, sometimes Komodos are found on neighboring islands, suspected of swimming there.
Zoologists formerly believed that the main problem was the dragon's diseased-filled bite from the rampant bacteria residing in their mouth. More recently theories have been put forward that the Komodo Dragon is actually venomous, and that the biggest problem when bitten is shock and massive blood loss due to the ferocity of the bite. Whichever, getting bitten is not a good thing.
The absence of crocodiles on Komodo Island due in part to a lack of suitable habitat leave the Komodo Dragons with no natural predators.
Younger Komodos may live in trees. While not as dangerous as their parents, they can still jump off suddenly and cause panic. Snakes, monitor lizards, and other animals are also present and may cause minor problems.
Saltwater Crocodiles are not present on Komodo Island but they may be present on the surrounding islands and in the ocean. Any area with estuaries and river mouths should permit extra caution as, although they are technically not present on Komodo, the islands ARE within the species natural range. It was once believed by Indonesian natives that monitor lizards including the Komodo dragon were capable of warning humans of a crocodile's presence.
