Water Dragons – Sunbathing, sassy dancing, reptile romancers

These amazing reptiles have mastered the art of living life on both land and water, and their adventures are just as colourful as they are surprising. Let’s explore their wild world!

Home Sweet Habitat

Eastern water dragons make their home in the riparian zones of eastern Australia. When they're lounging on sun-drenched rocks or perching on tree branches along streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds, these lizards know where to catch the best rays. They’re always on the lookout for a perfect chill spot and, of course, their next meal!

A Mixed Menu

When it comes to dining, these dragons are true foodies. Primarily insectivorous, they gobble up a variety of insects like crickets, beetles, and even spiders. They’re also opportunistic feeders. Sometimes snatching up small vertebrates such as fish and amphibians, and occasionally, they even sample a bit of plant matter.

Long Live the Dragon

In the wild, Eastern water dragons typically live around 10 years, strutting their stuff with style despite nature’s challenges.

A Vibrant Love Dance

When the breeding season kicks in, male water dragons transform into veritable showmen. Their scales brighten up as they engage in elaborate head-bobbing and tail-waving displays to impress potential mates and fend off rivals. Once a lady dragon is wooed, she finds the perfect warm, sandy nook near water to lay her clutch of eggs, ensuring that a new generation of these aquatic wonders is on the horizon.

Dual Mode Mobility

One of the coolest tricks up a water dragon’s sleeve is its versatility in movement. Their long, muscular tails aren’t just for show—they help them balance and steer whether they’re climbing rugged branches or darting through water to escape a sneaky predator. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one sleek package!

Would you like more wild tales and quirky animal facts? Grab your copy of the Wild about Wildlife Children's Activity Book and dive deeper into the enchanting world of Australia’s most fascinating creatures. www.catzan.com.au

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