Water dragons are semi-aquatic lizards known for basking near water, strong climbing, and diving to escape predators, communicating via head-bobbing and arm-waving to signal dominance or submission, and living in social groups (harems) with territorial males; they are generally shy but can adapt to humans, often seen near rivers or in suburban areas, and exhibit brumation in cooler months.
The first part of its scientific name Intellagama — intelligent lizard — is incredibly apt, as the dragons are clearly a species that lead a very complex life. "You see that?" Dr Frere says, sprinkling flower petals on the ground near a gathering of dragons.
If handled frequently as juveniles, water dragons can become quite personable and will remain social as long as the pet parent continues to interact with them daily.
Dragons can use their claws to indicate numbers. Nudging or brushing another dragon's wing or twining tails together is a sign of affection and closeness. Wrapping wings around one another, hugging, and pressing snouts together are also signs of affection. Dragons also kiss to express affection.
Wash your hands
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching or feeding your bearded dragon and after touching or cleaning the area where it lives and roams. Always wash your hands right after handling your bearded dragon and especially before holding or feeding a baby or a young child.
Water Dragons can sleep in the water, with just their nostrils protruding. In cold weather before they go into their winter dormancy (hibernation), sleeping in the water overnight, is actually warmer than sleeping in the open.
To insulate against the cold and help keep temperatures consistent we recommend keeping an Australian water dragon in a wooden vivarium. Due to the temperature gradient required for this species we recommend an enclosure around 4 x 2 x 3ft (width x depth x height) as a minimum.
Known for their engaging personality, water dragons can be tamed with frequent, gentle handling. Begin by allowing your water dragon to explore and discover your scent. Like most lizards, water dragons are wary of fast movements, so avoid any sudden movements.
The water dragon is not dangerous to humans and are mostly shy in nature. However, due to the expansion of urban areas, they readily adapt to continual human presence in suburban parks and gardens. In a fight-or-flight situation, water dragons tend to flee.
Dragons are most compatible with other “go-getter” signs, fellow Dragons, Rats, and Monkeys, who usually have the “out of this world” qualities that attract Dragons. Beyond the animal sign, compatibility can also depend on the element year you were born in (find yours here).
Water Dragons are preyed on in the wild by various snakes, such as Brown Tree Snake (Boiga irregularis), the Common Death Adder (Acanthophis antarcticus), the Lowlands Copperhead (Austrelaps superbus), the Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus) and the Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis).
The current scientific name for the water dragon is Intellagama lesueurii which translates to “Intelligent lizard”, a well-deserved name for an animal that has lived as long as the crocodiles – about 20 million years according to the fossil record.
Chinese Water Dragons are well adapted to life in warm, humid environments. Keep the humidity around 80%. You'll definitely want to invest in a reliable hygrometer so you can easily monitor humidity levels. You'll also need a UVB light and heat source above the basking area.
Flowing water with ample tree cover and basking sites appear to be the key to habitat preference for this species.
Yeah, the 'arm wave' can be a sign of acknowledgement(“I see you, just be aware that I see you, you stay on your side I'll stay on mine”) or a sign of submission. They acknowledge you as the larger 'dragon' in the room, “Hey, I see you, I don't want any trouble.
Instead, stay calm, maintain slow movements, keep quiet and lift your Bearded dragon slowly from between the front shoulders and rear legs, ensuring you support their whole body to stop them from feeling frightened.
Gentle handling during shedding is also essential—the process can be uncomfortable, and rough interactions might lead to skin damage. If your reptile does experience stuck shed, here's how to offer assistance: Increase humidity temporarily: This can help loosen the skin.