TopFamily
Agamidae (Dragons)
Genus
Physignathus
Species
lesuerii
Threats/Control Methods - Regional
Clearing of vegetation along rivers or creeks and the removal of logs and other habitat features in stream areas reduce the habitat available to the species.
Threats/Control Methods - Local
The main local population at the Botanic Gardens is not currently at risk from any threatening processes.
Local/Urban Actions
Enhancement of urban ponds and creek systems to include rock outcrops and shelter areas may increase the distribution of the Eastern Water Dragon. This may be appropriate in select areas such as Sullivans Creek on the ANU campus and some urban wetlands located near to existing populations
Common name/s
Water Dragon, Eastern Water Dragon, Gippsland Water Dragon
Distinguishing Features
The Eastern Water Dragon is grey to olive brown above, with black bars running across the body and tail. Adults can reach around 90cm total length, with an average of around 60cm. A row of spines runs from the back of the head down the body and tail.
Similar Species
Water Dragons resemble somewhat small monitors (goannas), but the spines and shorter neck and head set them apart.
Distribution
The species extends from northern Queensland, through NSW and the ACT to eastern Victoria. Generally, the species is restricted to the extended slopes of the Great Dividing Range. An isolated population exists in South Australia.
Country of Origin
Australia
TopSurvey Techniques
Hand searching, artificial cover provision, pitfall trapping
Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - National
Not listed as a threatened species.
Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - Regional
Common along the Murrumbidgee, Molonglo, Queanbeyan and Goodradigbee rivers.
LSCCES Population
Observed on the ANU campus and in the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Although common at the Botanic Gardens, there is possibly insufficient habitat around most of urban Canberra to support the species in other locations.
Associated vegetation community
Riparian vegetation. The Eastern Water Dragon is associated with the presence of water, particularly where overhanging vegetation is available.
Limiting Resources
The modification of most of Canberra's urban creeks for stormwater discharge has led to a reduction in the habitat available for the Eastern Water Dragon, with concrete edged banks being unsuitable habitat. The overhanging rocks, shelter (rocks, logs and low vegetation) and soft banks required by the species are not typically characteristic of urban creek systems or water features.
Breeding
Water Dragons breed in summer, with up to 20 eggs lain in burrows close to creeks. Young lizards usually avoid adults, as the adults will sometimes eat small lizards.
Behaviour
Water Dragons are diurnal. They tend to shelter under logs and rocks, and will often jump from trees into water. They are proficient swimmers, and can remain underwater for up to two hours.
Functional Group
Omnivore
Food Species
Invertebrates, fruit and flowers. Sometimes also small lizards, crustaceans and fish.
Predators
The Eastern Water Dragon is preyed on by snakes, with young dragons being especially vulnerable to attacks.
Interesting Fact
The Water Dragon that occurs around Canberra is a subspecies of the Eastern Water Dragon: Physiganthus lesuerii ssp. howittii.
The adult dragons become brightly coloured during the breeding season.
References - (reader suitability of references, P=Primary teachers, S=Secondary students, T=Tertiary students and researchers)
Books:
Lintermans, M. and Osborne, W. 2002. Wet & Wild: A Field Guide to the Freshwater Animals of the Southern Tablelands and High Country of the ACT and NSW, Environment ACT, Canberra. S, T
Wilson, S. and Swan, G. 2003. A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia. Reed New Holland, Sydney. S, T
Online Publications:
Greer, A.E. 2006. Encyclopedia of Australian Reptiles. Australian Museum Online, Version date: 7 August 2006. Thttp://www.amonline.net.au/herpetology/research/index.htm#encyclopedia [Last accessed 01/05/07]
Hazell, D. 2006. "Review of Reptile Data and Survey Methodology for the Lower Sullivans Creek Catchment, Canberra ACT". Published by Life in the Suburbs, Canberra. Thttp://www.lifeinthesuburbs.com.au/category.php?id=65[Last accessed 13/03/07]
Researcher: Ian Rayner