Komodo dragons can run at speeds of up to about 20 kilometers per hour (approximately 12 miles per hour) in short bursts. This speed allows them to quickly ambush prey despite their large size and bulky appearance

. Some sources note speeds ranging from 18 to 20 km/h, while others mention up to 13 mph (about 20 km/h), highlighting their ability to sprint rapidly but only for brief distances

. Their hunting strategy relies more on stealth and power rather than sustained speed, as they often wait patiently to ambush prey. When threatened or chasing prey, they can accelerate quickly but cannot maintain high speeds for long periods