The Water Dragon is a medium sized bright green lizard originating from southeast Asia.http://www.reptilefamily.com/world/world-as.html The most familiar of these is the Chinese water dragon. But there are also Australian water dragons and more. No matter which breed, you will find yourself with a very active and lively pet. Given a large, clean water source and something to climb, the water dragon is a great reptile and the perfect sized lizard for someone looking for something smaller than a pet iguana.
More than one water dragon can happily cohabitate with other water dragons, or related species such as the green basilisk lizard. Since their housing and dietary needs are basically identical, they go very well together. Gender is the key to harmony. In one circumstance, a green basilisk lizard, housed with three female Chinese water dragons, is the "man" of the house and all are thriving well. http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reptiles/green-basilisk-lizard/
Housing
Housing for your Water Dragon should be fairly large with the ability to move around. An aquarium with a screen top is suitable for your water Dragon. Be sure that there is fresh water to drink and soak in. Soaking helps aid in the shedding process along with hours of entertainment for your water dragon. Make sure there is good circulation, along with misting to keep the tank semi-humid. Offer a piece of wood or and/or vines so your pet can climb and bask and feel secure.
Interesting Water Dragon Information
Water dragons have what is called a "third eye," which is actually the pineal gland located on the top of their heads. When covered, the third eye actually puts the water dragon into a light slumber. The third eye does not "see" like other eyes do, but it offers additional protection to lizards who have this functionality. It looks like a gray spot on top of the lizard's head, and sends a warning when something is threatening from above.http://www.anapsid.org/parietal.html
Water Dragon Eating
What do water dragons eat? Super worms are a favorite with water dragons. It's important to "dust" the big mealworms with calcium powder, then feed them to your water dragon. Calcium powder provides the nutrient the lizards will be lacking when not in the wild. They also eat fruit and vegetables, crickets, baby pinky mice and feeder goldfish.
Water Dragon Books
Google Books: Water Dragons, Sailfin Lizards and Basilisks
Powell's Books: Guide to Owning a Water Dragon
Amazon.com: Water Dragons: A Complete Guide to Physignathus and More
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References
Fast Facts
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Diet
Insects, baby "pinky" mice, feeder goldfish, prey insects like superworms and leafy greens and vegetables.
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Lifespan
10 to 15 years (20 reported not confirmed)
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Males
36 inches
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Females
24 inches
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Diet
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Temperatures
Water Dragons prefer temperatures between 80 and 85 degrees
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Fact:
Prefer humidity between 60 and 80 percent
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Fact:
Calcium supplements should be offered
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Fact:
Cold-blooded
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Fact:
Can stay submerge in water for up to 30 minutes
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Pineal Gland
Third eye located in the top of the head
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Cost
Between $40.00 and $75.00 for babies
