Philippine Sailfin Lizard (Water Dragon)

Scientific Name

Hydrosaurus pustulatus

size/weight/height

Length: adults average 24 - 30" to maximum of 36"

adaptations/coloration

Body: slightly compressed
Tail: long; male has large sailfins on back and tail; female has dorsal fringe
Toes: scale fringes allow animal to run on to of the water on hind legs ( like pontoons); juveniles run on top of the water for short distances
Vestigal Third Eye: on top of head (parietal or pineal eye); clearly visible; sensitive to angle of sun's rays; thought to be homing mechanism

behavior

Personality: hand-raised individuals become very tame and seem to like being handled.
Defense: when threatened go into water to escape

reproduction/lifespan

egg layers

diet

omnivore " fish, frogs, fruits, vegetables & insects

habitat/range

rain forests; never far from water " Philippine Islands, Southern New Guinea and Northern Australia

status

not listed at this time

oregon zoo exhibit

education programs

back to top