Komodo dragon
© Sergey Uryadnikov / ShutterstockKomodo dragons have long, forked tongues that they use to help smell and taste.
An 83-year-old Indonesian woman survived a recent attack by a fearsome 2-meter-long (6.6 feet) Komodo dragon and is currently recovering in the hospital.

The attack occurred when Haisah, who like many Indonesians goes by one name, was making a broom from a coconut tree, Agence France-Press reported. The reptile pounced and bit down on her hand and Haisah told AFP, "I knew that I faced a fight for survival." She kicked one of the reptile's front legs, which was enough to get it to release her hand, then screamed for help. That is one tough lady!

Haisah's wrist required 35 stitches and was initially paralyzed, though it has since recovered some mobility.

This incident follows a spate of Komodo dragon attacks in recent months on the Indonesian islands that are the native home of the species. Komodo dragons are the world's largest lizard, growing up to 200 pounds (90 kilograms); they are considered a vulnerable species and are protected in their native habitat.