Asian Water Dragon

Physignathus cocincinus

"Fair Choice" Pet Fair Choice

The Asian (or Chinese) Water Dragon is a large lizard, growing up to 3 feet long. It is native to the forests of India, China, and southeastern Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Burma). Water Dragons are most commonly found in trees along the banks of freshwater lakes and streams. When threatened, they drop into the water and either swim to safety or remain submerged for several minutes. The long tail, nearly two-thirds of the entire body length, can be used as a weapon, for balance, or to assist with swimming. Asian Water Dragons are active during the day (diurnal), and they require tropical environments with temperatures of 77–95ºF and 60–90% humidity. In captivity, they can live up to 18 years.

Did You Know?

The Asian Water Dragon can grow up to 3 feet long.

Source Sustainability Unable to Rank Choice

Does the harvest for wildlife trade or captive breeding of this species harm wild populations?

Unable to Rank

Limited information is available for the population status of Asian Water Dragons in the wild. This species can be bred in captivity, but most animals in the pet trade are wild-caught. In Vietnam, the species is considered vulnerable to extinction because adults and eggs are collected as food.

PetWatch Recommendation:

When possible, purchase a captive-bred animal, as this will decrease the demand for wild-born individuals. In general, captive-bred animals will be healthier and live longer than wild-caught animals. Only acquire a pet that is from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder or dealer to ensure that you are not buying an illegally wild-caught and/or imported animal.

Invasion Threat Fair Choice

Does the release or escape of this species into the wild harm the environment and/or economy?

Some Cause for Concern

A wild population of Asian Water Dragons has been discovered in Hong Kong.  Because this location is just outside the species’ native range, this may not mean that Water Dragons will become invasive in other regions of the world.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Before obtaining an Asian Water Dragon, check to make sure that it is legal to own one in your state of residence and check for permitting requirements. Always keep your pet lizard inside a safe and secure enclosure. Never release a pet into the wild.

Animal Welfare Fair Choice

Does harvest, captive breeding, transport, or being kept as a pet harm individual animals?

Some Cause for Concern

There are several challenges to keeping Asian Water Dragons in captivity. First, they need a relatively large enclosure, at least two times their total length. Adults should be provided an enclosure that measures at least 6 feet long, 2–3 feet deep, and 4–6 feet high. Water Dragons also need access to water, and, because they often defecate in their water, it must be changed daily or filtered. In addition, the usual requirements for keeping tropical reptiles—basking lights, heat sources, and broad spectrum lighting (including UVB)—are essential. These lizards also need a varied and balanced diet of live insects and mice, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Finally, in the wild, Water Dragons dive into the water when threatened. In captivity, this behavior can result in collisions with the sides of the cage or glass; if this occurs repeatedly, the lizard’s nose tissue may be severely damaged.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Before acquiring a pet Water Dragon, be sure to research its specific care requirements. Annual check ups and fecal analyses are recommended. Talk to your veterinarian about the proper diet and how to maintain a healthy weight for your pet. Because these animals can be carriers of disease (see Health Threat, below), acquire an animal only from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder.

Health Threat Fair Choice

Does this animal pose a health risk to native wildlife, humans, livestock and agriculture?

Some Cause for Concern

Like most captive reptiles, Asian Water Dragons are known carriers of Salmonella. If ingested by humans, Salmonella can cause vomiting and diarrhea; these symptoms are usually mild in healthy adults but can be fatal to infants and young children, or anyone with a compromised immune system. It is important to wash hands before and after handling an animal. Salmonella can be transmitted from exotic pets to any member of a household, even those who do not handle the pet directly.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Due to the potential for disease transmission to humans and other household pets, acquire a Water Dragon that was captive-bred in the United States, has a documented health history, and is from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder or distributor. Be sure to ask for proof of a clean bill of health and that the animal has been checked by a certified veterinarian. Obtain a list of any medical treatments the animal has received.

EcoHealth Alliance works at the intersection of ecosystem, animal and human health through local conservation programs and develops global health solutions to emerging diseases.
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