December 21st 2024.
Great news from the Los Angeles Zoo! Two adorable baby lizards have just hatched, making them the first of their kind to be successfully bred at the zoo. These little ones are called Perentie lizards, scientifically known as Varanus giganteus, and they originate from the land down under - Australia. They are among the largest lizards in the world, second only to the famous Komodo dragon and a few others.
Byron Wusstig, the zoo's curator, expressed his delight in a statement, saying, "It is truly a rewarding experience for our team to witness the successful breeding of this species. While they are not considered endangered, it is a rare sight to see them in zoo settings outside of Australia." In fact, the LA Zoo is one of only three institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums that have been able to successfully reproduce Perentie lizards. And to top it off, this is the first time in the history of the zoo that this particular species has been bred.
According to zoo officials, these little ones are thriving and are being closely monitored by the staff. They are being fed and will be raised in a controlled environment, away from the public eye, during their early stages of life. However, visitors can still catch a glimpse of the proud father in the Australia section, near the Komodo dragon habitat.
When fully grown, Perentie lizards can reach an impressive length of over 8 feet and can weigh more than 40 pounds! Their brown skin is adorned with beautiful cream or yellow markings. As carnivorous creatures, they have quite the appetite, feasting on turtle eggs, insects, birds, other reptiles, and even small mammals and marsupials. And as you might have guessed, they swallow their prey whole.
We are so excited to welcome these little ones into the world and can't wait to see them grow up in the loving care of the LA Zoo. Make sure to visit them on your next trip to the zoo and witness these amazing creatures for yourself!
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