Vienna, Austria - February 06, 2025 Critically endangered monitor lizards, rarely seen in the wild, are now on public display for the first time at Schönbrunn Zoo. The numb monitor lizards, which resemble miniature dragons, were previously kept behind the scenes in the rainforest house, where they were successfully bred. These elusive reptiles, native to the rainforests of Borneo, are typically found near clear, flowing water with rocky bottoms, but sightings in their natural habitat are extremely rare. Listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the species faces severe threats due to habitat destruction. Schönbrunn Zoo is actively working to protect them through conservation breeding and participation in the global “Reverse the Red” initiative, which aims to combat species decline worldwide. "By breeding them regularly, we are helping to establish reserve populations and preserve the species," said zoological curator Anton Weissenbacher. The zoo has also adapted a terrarium specifically for the lizards, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to observe these mysterious creatures up close. As their rainforest homes disappear due to human activity, including the expansion of oil palm plantations and rice fields, conservationists stress the urgency of protecting these unique reptiles. "Every individual can contribute to species conservation," Weissenbacher emphasized.