Australian Water Dragon

The Australian Water Dragon (*Physignathus lesueurii*) is a large, spectacular lizard native to eastern Australia. As active, alert, and semi-arboreal reptiles, they make outstanding display animals for reptile enthusiasts. It is crucial for New Zealand keepers to note a major biosecurity distinction: only the Australian Water Dragon is legal to keep in New Zealand. The Chinese Water Dragon (*Physignathus cocincinus*), which is bright green and highly popular internationally, is a prohibited species under NZ biosecurity regulations and is illegal to possess.

Australian Water Dragons grow to a significant size, with adult males reaching 60 to 90cm in length (with the tail making up about two-thirds of this length). Because they are semi-arboreal and love to climb, they require a very large, tall enclosure—ideally a minimum of 120cm wide, 60cm deep, and 120cm high. The enclosure must feature sturdy climbing branches, artificial or non-toxic live plants, and a large water basin, as these lizards are excellent swimmers and will regularly submerge themselves to rest or defecate.

They require a strict thermal gradient, with a localized basking spot maintained at 35–38°C and an ambient temperature of 26–28°C, alongside high-output UVB 10.0 lighting. Maintaining humidity between 60% and 80% is critical to ensure healthy shedding and respiratory function, which requires daily manual misting or an automatic misting system. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of live insects (such as crickets, locusts, and roaches), earthworms, and a variety of safe leafy greens and vegetables. Due to their complex heating, humidity, and space requirements, they are recommended for intermediate to advanced reptile keepers in NZ.