Chinese Water Dragon - Physignathus cocincinus
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General Information

Distribution — Southeastern Asia

Habitat — Water dragons, as their name suggests, are always located very close to water. This species is found in tropical rainforests at both high and low elevations throughout their range.

Adult Size — Most adult Chinese water dragons are between 80 cm and 90 cm (31" - 35") in total length.

Temperament — Chinese water dragons tend to be rather skittish when young. They may try to run or even jump in an attempt to escape. Older animals tend to calm down with regular handling as they grow. As long as you fully support them, adults will generally be content to sit comfortably when held.

Longevity — If cared for properly, Chinese water dragons can live for 8 to 12 years.

Captive Care

Rating: 2 — Water dragons are a good starter lizard - as long as you get one that is captive bred. Unfortunately, they are still being imported in large numbers, and wild caught specimens tend to be very skittish and will often rub their noses raw in attempts to escape from glass terrariums. However, water dragons do make a good choice as long as you can provide them with a roomy enclosure and large water pan.

Diet: Hatchlings and Juveniles - crickets, meal worms, wax worms, other insects, finely chopped leafy greens (dandelion leaves, Romaine lettuce, etc.); Adults - crickets, meal worms, wax worms, leafy greens and the occasional pink/fuzzy mouse. NOTE: Though some Water Dragons may not accept leafy greens at first, it is an important part of their diet and should be worked in. For those that don't accept the veggies right away, try making the salad look more appealing by adding mealworms and purple grapes (they love grapes).

Temperature: 25o to 30 o C (77o-86oF)

Required Space: Chinese water dragons require a fair amount of vertical space, as they are skilled climbers and spend a fair amount of time above ground. For this reason, a 4"x4"x2" is great for an adult. Babies can be housed in a 20 to 30 gallon aquarium until they get a little larger.

Breeding: Water dragons are sexually mature at 3 to 5 years. After a slight cooling period, breeding occurs with clutches of up to 20 eggs being produced. On average, eggs hatch 67 days after incubation at 29o C to 30o C.

Special Requirements: Chinese water dragons stay at a manageable size, eat well, and are a generally hardy lizard. However, providing them with a water dish that is large enough for them to submerge themselves in and daily spraying are essential to their long term health.

Sources (Suggested Reading):

Bartlett, R.D. and P. Bartlett. 1997. Anoles, Basilisks, and Water Dragons. Barron’s Educational Series Inc., New York. Pp. 96.

Jes, Harald. 1987. Lizards in the Terrarium. Barron’s Educational Series Inc., New York. Pp. 87.

Rogner, Manfred. 1997. Lizards, Volume 1. Krieger Publishing Company, Malabar, Florida. Pp. 317.

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