Ecology, Population, Reproduction, and Spatial Dynamics of Komodo Dragons in Komodo National Park

The Final Report CRES with ISBN is a comprehensive scientific publication summarizing key research findings on the ecology, population dynamics, reproductive biology, and spatial behavior of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. This report covers results from field research conducted over several years as part of a long‑term study aimed at improving ecological monitoring and conservation management.

📌 Executive Summary and Background

Between 2002 and 2006, an extensive five‑year research project was carried out across multiple study sites within Komodo National Park. The primary goal was to gather ecological data that would support improved wildlife management and conservation of Komodo dragons and their main prey species.

🦎 Population and Reproduction Ecology

One key set of findings in the report focuses on nesting ecology and reproductive output:

• Female Komodo dragons showed a declining trend in nesting activity over the study period. The number of active nests dropped from 27 in 2002 to 7 by 2006.
• Most nesting females preferred to use former megapode bird nests (mound nests) rather than ground or hill nests.
• After laying eggs, females guarded their nests for about three months, during which they often decreased their feeding activity and lost body weight.
• Hatchlings emerged annually mainly in February or March, with an average of about 19.56 hatchlings per nest per year.

These reproductive patterns suggest that female Komodo dragons do not breed annually, as most were only recorded nesting once during the study period

📍 Spatial Movements and Habitat Use

The report also analyzed spatial behavior and activity areas of Komodo dragons at different life stages:

• Hatchlings moved in a mostly linear pattern consistent with natal dispersal and had smaller daily movement rates and activity areas than juveniles.
• Hatchlings also showed a strong tendency to be arboreal (tree‑climbing) compared to juveniles, and their habitat use favored dry monsoon forest over more open and xeric zones.
• Adults exhibited monthly variation in daily movement rates and activity area sizes.
  • Nesting females tended to focus their movements around the nest during the nesting period (roughly August to December).
  • Male activity peaked in June, coinciding with the start of the mating season, and declined by September when females began nesting.
• In general, larger individuals showed greater daily movement and larger spatial activity areas compared to smaller individuals, highlighting how body size influences spatial ecology.

📊 Scientific and Conservation Value

This report provides critical ecological insights that are valuable for evidence‑based conservation and management of Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Understanding reproductive patterns, habitat use, and movement behavior helps conservationists and park managers to:

• Develop effective long‑term monitoring programs
• Identify priority areas for protection and management
• Inform policy decisions and conservation strategies based on real ecological data

🏁 Conclusion

The Final Report CRES with ISBN represents one of the most detailed scientific assessments of the ecology of Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park. The findings highlight key biological processes such as reproductive activity, spatial use of habitat, and demographic trends — all of which serve as essential foundations for ongoing conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the future of this iconic and vulnerable species.

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