Cover image via @mandaiwildlifereserve (Instagram)
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A male Komodo dragon at the Singapore Zoo recently underwent an emergency medical procedure after consuming two plush toys in an unusual turn of events
The incident, which occurred at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, highlights the unpredictable nature of coexisting with local wildlife within the zoo's grounds.
Dr Heng Yirui, the deputy vice president of veterinary healthcare and scientific programmes, detailed the "peculiar case" in a social media post on Monday, 2 March.
The ordeal began when a group of wild macaques — native to the surrounding forested areas — discovered a sealed bag belonging to a visitor
Finding no food or valuables inside, the primates began playing with the contents, which included several stuffed toys.
In a display of typical macaque mischief, the animals hurled the plushies into the nearby Komodo dragon den.
Mario, a large male Komodo dragon, was immediately drawn to the sudden movement and commotion
An ambush hunter, his predatory instincts were triggered by the falling objects; he lunged at the toys and swallowed them before keepers could intervene. While these reptiles are biologically capable of regurgitating indigestible materials, Mario failed to do so within the first 24 hours.
The veterinary team grew concerned that the foreign objects would migrate into the intestinal tract, creating a life-threatening blockage. To prevent a fatal obstruction, the medical team opted for a non-invasive retrieval attempt using a gastroscope.
This procedure involves inserting a camera and small tools into the stomach; however, the soft, absorbent material of the plush toys proved impossible to grip with the mechanical instruments.
After 90 minutes of unsuccessful attempts to dislodge the items, the team resorted to a more direct, hands-on approach
Dr Heng emphasised that while these animals share the space, humans must remain mindful of how their belongings can inadvertently impact the zoo's residents. Mario has since returned to his enclosure and is reported to be in good health.
The recovery process was monitored closely to ensure Mario had not suffered internal damage. Relief came the following day when the dragon passed faeces normally, confirming that no further obstructions remained in his system.
Macaques and colugos are common sights around the Mandai precinct, and their presence requires constant vigilance from both staff and visitors
Dr Heng emphasised that while these animals share the space, humans must remain mindful of how their belongings can inadvertently impact the residents of the zoo. Mario has since returned to his enclosure and is reported to be in good health.
Watch the video below:
