How prey-based feeding enrichment improves welfare for Komodo dragons in zoo environments.
Komodo dragon welfare in captivity is significantly improved by enrichment that engages their predatory behavioral repertoire. Dragons in barren enclosures without hunting challenge become inactive and obese, while well-enriched animals show the active behavioral profile characteristic of wild individuals. Scent enrichment using prey species secretions, whole prey feeding that requires processing effort, and thermal gradient management that allows behavioral thermoregulation are the key welfare interventions. The conservation urgency of Komodo dragon programs increases as climate change threatens their island habitat.