Eastern water dragon

Physignathus lesueurii

Eastern water dragons inhabit all vegetation types in close proximity to water and are also at home in suburban backyards and cities.

Eastern water dragons are the largest of the dragon species in Australia, growing up to a meter in length. They have a row of spines that start at the top of the head and run all the way down the body and tail. Males have bright red chest which brightens in breeding season.

They are omnivorous and feed on small reptiles, worms, frogs, insects, fruit, berries and molluscs.

To escape predators they can stay underwater for up to an hour. Males will stage violent fights for territory rights during the mating season.