Footage from the Cincinnati Zoo captured the moment a Timor zebra finch rested atop a Komodo dragon while cleaning it, in a “fascinating example” of symbiosis.

“What you’re seeing here is a fascinating example of a mutualistic symbiotic relationship between our 7-year-old Komodo dragon, Aegon, and one of our Timor zebra finches,” the zoo said on X. “Mutualism means both species benefit—and this is a perfect example!”

What you’re seeing here is a fascinating example of a mutualistic symbiotic relationship between our 7-year-old Komodo dragon, Aegon, and one of our Timor zebra finches. Mutualism means both species benefit—and this is a perfect example! pic.twitter.com/I1K0nzk3A5

— Cincinnati Zoo (@CincinnatiZoo) May 2, 2026

The finch in the video can be seen pecking right near the reptile’s eyes, but according to the Komodo Survival Program the lizards are well-protected by two eyelids on each eye.

📸 Cincinnati Zoo via Storyful