Asian Water Dragon
Common Name: Asian Water Dragon
Scientific Name: Physignathus cocincinus
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Diet
Asian Water Dragons are omnivorous reptiles, feeding on a diet consisting mainly of insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and vegetation.
Average lifespan
In the wild, Asian Water Dragons typically live around 10 to 15 years, though they may live longer in captivity with proper care.
Size
Asian Water Dragons are relatively large lizards, with adults reaching lengths of up to 60 to 90 centimeters (2 to 3 feet) from snout to tail.
Weight
Adult Asian Water Dragons can weigh anywhere from 300 to 700 grams (0.7 to 1.5 pounds).
About
Asian Water Dragons are native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. They inhabit various habitats including forests, jungles, and riversides, where they can find suitable food and basking sites.
Size and behavior
Asian Water Dragons have long, slender bodies and powerful limbs adapted for climbing and swimming. They are excellent swimmers and often spend much of their time near water, basking on rocks or branches overhanging rivers and streams. They are also agile climbers, using their strong claws and prehensile tails to navigate through the trees. Asian Water Dragons are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day.
Diet and nutrition
Asian Water Dragons are opportunistic feeders, preying on a wide variety of small animals and insects. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches, as well as small vertebrates, fruits, and leafy greens. Providing a varied diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients for growth, development, and overall health.
Conservation status
The conservation status of Asian Water Dragons in the wild is currently of least concern. While they may face localized threats from habitat loss, pollution, and collection for the pet trade in some areas, they are still relatively abundant and widespread throughout their range. However, like many reptile species, they may be impacted by habitat destruction, climate change, and human activities.
Fun fact
Asian Water Dragons have a unique adaptation called “cryptic coloration,” which helps them blend into their surroundings and avoid detection by predators. They can change their coloration to match the environment, ranging from bright green to brown, depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity. This camouflage allows them to remain hidden from potential threats while hunting or resting.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
