Known as the Gonocephalus abbbotti in the world of zoology the Chinese tree dragon has only recently attracted the interest of the western world. This unique reptile has only recently made its way into the U.S. Part of the lizard family the Chinese tree dragon is admired for its beauty.
The genus of lizard that the tree frog is related to is the agamidae. The Chinese tree dragon has been categorized as part of the traditional lizard family. They are also a relation to the New World iguanids we see today.
Part of the agamide family they bare the defining features that are characteristic of the family. The Chinese tree dragon has a rather large triangular head and a long tail that can measure up to two thirds of the lizard’s body. They stand upon short legs and their paws are adorned with sharp claws that can be used to climb trees and dig holes. The lizard’s tail often breaks off during self defense but unlike other lizards they do not grow back.
One of the remarkable qualities the tree dragon possesses ifs the ability to see extremely well, this enables the tree dragon to adapt to the color of its surrounding, hiding itself from predators, much like the chameleon does. It is a carnivorous reptile that also has the capability to lay eggs.
The Chinese tree dragon is a native of southeastern Asia. It is also found in the island country of Australia. The lizard can range from ten inches in length to up to twenty four inches. The crest that they sport on their heads that extends all the way down to their tails bares resemblance to the water dragon.
There are distinct differences between the male and female species of the tree dragon. Males have spikes on their rather larger dewlap which has the capability of moving in a descending position. Tree dragons are also known to have considerably sized mouths that can be excruciating to others when used.
As the name suggests the tree dragon lives up in the trees and is usually found in mountain rainforests. The lizard is known to prefer heights to low undergrowth. They like to bask in the sun but need to live close to some sort of a water body. They only thrive in places that have the ideal temperature range for their healthy survival.
The Chinese tree dragon gets its daily source of essential nutrients by feeding on a wide variety of insects. The cricket, small vertebrates, mealworms and earthworms are a regular on the dragon’s menu. When the tree dragon is kept as a pet the owner will be required to make use of vitamin supplements in order to give the lizard its daily dose of essential nutrients.
Keeping the tree dragon as a pet will also require you to arrange for some sort of a water body for the lizard. It requires a humid environment and has the ability to breed all year round.
Baby Chinese Water Dragons are studied by historians to learn more about our predecessors. In case you liked reading this post you may be interested in our page on Chinese Dragon Compatability.