Chester Zoo is home to the world’s largest lizard species, the Komodo dragon. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you can explore these fascinating creatures and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them. This guide provides detailed information about visiting the Komodo dragons at Chester Zoo, including costs, timings, rates, and other essential details.
Species Overview
Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) are native to a few small islands in Indonesia, with an estimated wild population of around 3,000 individuals. These apex predators can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 90kg. They are known for their venomous bite, which injects venom into the bloodstream of their prey, causing rapid weakness and death.
Conservation Efforts
Chester Zoo is committed to the conservation of Komodo dragons through various initiatives. The zoo manages Komodo dragons under human care across Europe and supports the Komodo Survival Program (KSP) in Indonesia, which conducts vital research, provides education and support for local communities, and works closely with the Government of Indonesia to create policies that protect Komodo dragons. Chester Zoo also collaborates with zoos worldwide to support KSP’s mission, providing technical input, resources, and direct help in the field.
Visiting Chester Zoo Komodo Dragons
Timings and Rates
Chester Zoo is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:00 pm. The zoo offers various ticket options:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (age 18-64) | £25.00 |
| Child (age 3-17) | £20.00 |
| Senior (age 65+) | £20.00 |
| Disabled visitor | £20.00 |
| Carer | Free |
These prices are subject to change and may not include additional fees or discounts. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the Chester Zoo website.
Komodo Dragon Experience
For a more immersive and educational experience, Chester Zoo offers a Komodo dragon experience. This behind-the-scenes encounter allows visitors to learn about the Komodo dragons’ behavior, conservation, and care. The experience includes:
- A 60-minute session with a maximum of 1 person (exclusive just for one guest)
- Laying scent trails and other forms of enrichment
- Watching the Komodo dragon and discussing its behavior
- Learning about conservation projects overseas
- Exclusive gift and experience certificate
- Zoo admission
The Komodo dragon experience is available for adults and children aged 12 years old and over. The cost is £150.00 per person, and advance booking is required. For more information and to book, visit the Chester Zoo website.
Adopting a Komodo Dragon
Visitors can support the conservation of Komodo dragons by adopting one through Chester Zoo’s adoption program. Adoption packages include various benefits, such as admission tickets and zoo goodies, and contribute to the zoo’s conservation efforts in Indonesia.
| Adoption Package | Price |
|---|---|
| Bronze Adoption | £45.00 |
| Silver Adoption | £65.00 |
| Gold Adoption | £90.00 |
For more information about adopting a Komodo dragon, visit the Chester Zoo website.
References
- Chester Zoo. (2023). Tickets & Prices. Retrieved from https://www.chesterzoo.org/plan-your-visit/tickets-prices
- Chester Zoo. (2023). The Journey to Save the World’s Largest Lizard. Retrieved from https://www.chesterzoo.org/news/the-journey-to-save-the-worlds-largest-lizard
- Chester Zoo. (2023). Komodo Dragon Experience. Retrieved from https://www.chesterzoo.org/online-shop/meet-experiences-at-chester-zoo/komodo-dragon-experience
- Chester Zoo. (2023). Komodo Dragon | Meet Our Animals | Plan Your Visit. Retrieved from https://www.chesterzoo.org/our-zoo/animals/komodo-dragon
- Chester Zoo. (2023). World’s Largest Lizards Hatch. Retrieved from https://www.chesterzoo.org/news/worlds-largest-lizards-hatch