Animal Diaries Archive
Breeding programs
28 July 2006
It's the breeding time of year again for the reptiles, and as conservationists it is one of the most important times of the year for us. Australia Zoo is committed to breeding many endangered species, including Brigalow Womas, Mary River Turtles and Komodo Dragons. Each of these species faces its own unique problems. The Woma is found on the Brigalow Belt in central Queensland. The effects of land-clearing and feral animals have drastically reduced their numbers. Not only has the Zoo started a breeding program with these remarkable snakes, but Steve and Terri have also purchased huge tracts of land on the Brigalow Belt that will never be able to be developed, so these wonderful animals will always have a home. The Mary River Turtles are found only in the Mary River, which is not far north of the Zoo. We have a pair of these turtles that bred for the first time last year. A continual captive breeding program will help sure raise the numbers of this species for years to come,
Finally, the Komodo Dragon. What can I about this guy? They are the world's largest lizard, and quite possibly the most exciting reptile on the planet! Here at Australia Zoo we have four out of the five that are in Australia. We haven't managed to breed them yet, but I'm sure it's just a matter of time.
