CHINESE WATER DRAGON
- Grow up to 3 feet with their tail being 1/2 of that length.
- Live an average of 10-15 years, though some may reach 20 years.
- They are omnivorous, eating both insects and plants.
- Naturally found in both the highland and lowland forests of India, Southern China, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Burma near freshwater lakes and streams.
Diet
The main diet of a dragon consists of insects such as roaches, mealworms, and occasionally wax worms or superworms. Calcium and Vitamin D3 supplements should be used to coat the insects and veggies. This supplement should be used every day for young dragons and once a week for older dragons.
Water dragons also eat vegetables and fruits. It is best to offer a good variety of finely chopped vegetables with the main vegetables being collared, mustard, or dandelion greens, carrots, peas, and beans. Do not feed lettuces. Fruits such as apples, strawberries, cantaloupe, and bananas can be offered, too. It is important to choose foods higher in calcium and avoid foods high in phosphorous. Young dragons will tend to eat more insects and appreciate their veggies and fruits more as they get older.
A large dish of fresh water should be available at all times. Clean the bowl and refresh the water daily.
Housing
Juveniles can begin in a 40 breeder aquarium with a large pool of water, many branches to climb on, bedding and moss that hold moisture, heat lamps, UVB lighting, a hide spot, and many plants to decrease stress. Adults can be housed in a minimum of a 55 gallon, but are most comfortable in a 75 gallon or larger aquarium with the same amenities as listed for juveniles.
Provide a 90-100ºF basking area and a cooler 75-80ºF area with a night temperature in the 70’s. A basking bulb or ceramic heat emitter works well for a basking area. In addition, a full spectrum UVB light needs to be provided ten to twelve hours per day.
Handling & Care
Chinese water dragons are friendly and easily handled for short periods, they do not particularly enjoy being handled for very long and will try to get away. When handling your dragon, use both hands, supporting all limbs. They do have sharp claws so always supervise others who are not used to holding them.
Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap after handling any animal.
Health
Dragons are prone to Metabolic Bone Disease, which is easily prevented with a vitamin supplement and UVB lighting.
It is common for water dragons to become frustrated with small enclosures and they may run into the glass and injure themselves. It is beneficial to offer a large cage, use plant/forest print aquarium background, provide many branches to climb on, and many plants to decrease stress.
