Reptiles
Eastern Water Dragon
Intellagama lesueurii
On a sandstone ledge above a Sydney creek, an eastern water dragon basks in the morning sun, then plunges headfirst into the pool at the sound of footsteps.
Overview
The eastern water dragon, Intellagama lesueurii, is a Least Concern lizard of rivers, creeks, and parks with water along the east coast of Australia. Its diving escape, colourful males, and temperature-controlled sex ratios make it one of the most familiar large lizards of eastern Australian cities.
A lizard that hides underwater
When alarmed, the water dragon drops into the water and holds still on the bottom, where predators can easily lose sight of it.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common.
Eastern Water Dragon: common questions
How long can the eastern water dragon stay underwater?
It can stay submerged for a long time, even an hour or more, resting on the bottom to escape danger.
What decides the sex of water dragon hatchlings?
The temperature at which the eggs are incubated, a trait known as temperature-dependent sex determination.
What do eastern water dragons eat?
They eat insects, small animals, fruit, and flowers.
Where is the eastern water dragon found?
It lives along rivers, creeks, and parks with water on the east coast of Australia.