LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 7, 2025) – Today, the Little Rock Zoo showcased the grand opening of two extraordinary exhibits: Isle of the Dragon: Komodo Exhibit and Hidden Corners of the World: Uncommon Creatures, just in time for Hiland Dairy Dollar Day scheduled for Sat., July 12.
Komodo dragons are an exciting new species at the Zoo. “The Isle of the Dragon” exhibit is located on the west side of the reptile building and brings guests face-to-face with two awe-inspiring Komodo Dragons: one female juvenile (Tiamat) and one male juvenile (Iroh). The immersive experience offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to observe Komodo dragons up close and watch them grow. Both Komodo dragons are smaller in size and will grow to full size in a few years. The project is funded in part with capital dollars from the City of Little Rock and privately raised funds from the Laura P. Nichols Foundation and Hiland Dairy.
Komodo dragons are the largest reptile species, with some males growing to be as long as 10 feet. Komodos are indigenous to the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Dasami and Gili Motang, with the largest population inhabiting Komodo. They are apex predators that consume mammals and birds, and are known for their hunting and ambush abilities. Classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and poaching. The Zoo’s Komodos come to Little Rock through a recommendation of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).
In addition to the new Komodo exhibit, the Zoo introduced its new amphibian and reptile habitat, “Hidden Corners of the World: Uncommon Creatures”. Funded by a generous gift from the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce in honor of Toad Suck Daze, “Hidden Corners” will shine a spotlight on rare and remarkable reptiles and amphibians from some of the planet’s most remote and biodiverse regions. From brilliantly colored frogs to elusive lizards, the exhibit will showcase nature’s incredible diversity and will highlight the important role these lesser-known species play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The unveiling of these exhibits comes just in time for Hiland Dairy Dollar Day, Saturday, July 12. This annual event, funded by long-time Zoo donor Hiland Dairy, is popular with families all across the state. All guests will enjoy entry to the Zoo for just one dollar, making it the perfect opportunity for them to experience these fascinating new attractions.
“We are incredibly proud to open these two unique exhibits that highlight both the power and mystery of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures,” said Susan Altrui, Director of the Little Rock Zoo. “These exhibits not only give our guests unforgettable experiences but also inspire a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.”
“The Little Rock Zoo also looks forward to welcoming guests to our annual Hiland Dairy Dollar Day this Saturday, where they will have a chance to see these exciting new habitats and enjoy a day at the Zoo with their family,” added Altrui.
For more information about the new exhibits and upcoming events, visit www.littlerockzoo.com.
