In the November edition of Waves Magazine which serves as the ultimate guide to Galveston for visitors and residents alike, you can read about Diablo, our 14-year old Komodo Dragon who can seen on most days inside the Rainforest Pyramid or on occasion at the Visitor’s Center.
Moody Gardens is home to many remarkable creatures, but Diablo, the 14-year-old Komodo dragon, truly stands out as a crowd favorite. From his impressive size—eight feet long and 175 pounds—to his intelligence and engaging behavior, Diablo captivates visitors with every encounter. Hatched in 2010 at the Los Angeles Zoo, he arrived at Moody Gardens as a tiny hatchling and has since grown into a living relic of prehistoric times, thanks to exceptional care and training. For those who know him best, Diablo is much more than just a fascinating animal; he’s a reminder of nature’s incredible history and diversity.
As the Animal Welfare Manager, Marci has spent countless hours socializing and conditioning Diablo, drawing on her two decades of expertise in reptile and animal care. While Diablo exhibits incredible traits, Marci and her team remain vigilant, adhering to strict safety protocols to ensure everyone’s well-being when working with this powerful wild animal. Even the most docile dragons must be handled with care, as Diablo’s sharp teeth and unpredictable moods remind staff of his untamed nature.
Read more about Diablo, and his caretaker Marci as well as the challenges and hopes that he faces for the future as an aging reptile.
The original article was written by Dr. Richard D. Henderson, DVM of the Galveston Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Henderson serves as the veterinary medical provider for the Moody Gardens Rainforest and Aquarium Pyramids, and is responsible for examining and treating animals in the collection including over 300 species of fish, seals, penguins, reptiles, amphibians, birds, small mammals and primates.
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