Intellagama – Australian water dragon

Found along eastern Australia’s rivers, creeks, and suburban parks, this impressive lizard looks like a tiny dinosaur with attitude. Males have muscular bodies, spiky crests, and bold stripes down their sides. Their skin comes in earthy shades of green, brown, or grey, perfect for blending in with tree trunks and riverbanks. They even have a long tail that helps them steer while swimming — basically, they’re built like little dragon athletes!

When they feel threatened, they dive into a stream or river and either swim away or simply sink to the bottom and wait. Their nostrils seal up and stay completely still until the danger passes. It’s a trick that’s earned their name and made them masters of survival in wild (and even urban) habitats. They’re strong climbers, too, often seen basking on tree branches or sunny rocks near the water’s edge.

Australian water dragons aren’t just tough but also fascinating to watch. Males are known for their head-bobbing displays and push-ups when trying to impress females or challenge rivals. They’re not big on talking, but they sure know how to show off! They also use body language like tail flicks and arm waves to communicate. In the wild, they eat a mix of insects, small animals, fruit, and even flowers, making them opportunistic omnivores. Their sharp claws and quick reflexes help them catch prey or scramble away in a flash.

If you’re lucky enough to see one in the wild, you’ll probably find it basking in the sun, looking completely relaxed — until it spots movement, then zip! — it’s either off into the water or up a tree. Despite their fierce looks, they’re shy and non-aggressive, and many have adapted well to life near humans. In some parts of Australia, they’re a familiar sight in backyards and gardens, where they help keep insect populations in check.