It is the second time Flora has laid eggs without mating

Chester Zoo's Flora became a parent to seven young last year and has now added another male to her brood - all without the help of an adult male.

This process, known as parthenogenesis, has only recently been recognised in komodo dragons, although it is known to happen in other reptiles.

However, plans are afoot to introduce a potential mate to Flora this year.

Kevin Buley, Chester Zoo's head of zoo programmes, said: "The absence of a strong male partner really doesn't seem to trouble Flora.

"She remains determined to do her own thing with fantastic results."

Komodo dragons are an endangered species and part of a European breeding programme to protect them.

But Flora's solitary existence is going to be short-lived.

In a few months she will be introduced to Norman, who has recently made his home at Chester.

"We're pretty confident we've found the ideal dragon for Flora," he said.

"He's everything a dragon should be. With any luck, Flora and Norman will follow suit and hit it off on their first date."