Australian water dragon in tree
While I wander with my head in the clouds, looking for birds, I sometimes spot other interesting creatures. This is an Australian Water Dragon.
They’re quite large lizards, at 80-90 cm when adult, and attractive with their fierce eyes and that spiky crest running down their spine. They can be quite colourful. This one is shades of grey with yellow tinges. I’ve seen others with a rosy red glow on their chests. They like to be near water, and have long-fingered strong hands for climbing trees.
Common name: Eastern water dragon, or Australian water dragon
Scientific name: Itellagama lesueurii lesueurii
Approximate length: 90 cm
Date spotted: 3 December 2016
Season: Summer
Location: Manly Dam Reserve, New South Wales, Australia
Latitude/longitude: 33°46’50.1″S 151°15’04.5″E
Posted on 2016/12/04, in Not a bird and tagged australia, water dragon. Bookmark the permalink. 1 Comment.
Sydney Birder 
Great photo Sarah. I’ve seen one in our backyard recently, must be the warm weather bringing them out.