Eastern Water Dragon
The Eastern Water Dragon (Intellagama lesueurii) is about half a metre long with rough scales, sharp spines and ancient features that resemble fairytale dragons. They are grey-brown in colour with black banding, and some have a red belly and chest. Usually a broad black band extends through the eye. A crest of spines runs from the head to the tail.
Water dragons are different from all other lizards – they have four well-developed limbs, each with five claws, and a tail that is longer than the body. Males are larger than females, sometimes reaching 80 cm in length.
Where does the Eastern Water Dragon live?
They are semi-aquatic and live along the east coast of Australia around creeks, rivers or lakes. They can remain submerged for up to 30 minutes and will rise to the surface where they need to breathe.
Fast Facts:
- Eastern Water Dragons grab their food with short, thick tongues. All other Australian lizards use only their jaws to grasp food
- Males are very territorial and will not tolerate another mature male in the same area. They have been known to chase small dogs and even small children with their vigorous threat displays when they feel threatened.
