Pet Life Magazine, New Zealand Pet Life Magazine Issue 4 Spring 2017 | Page 8

EXOTICS PETS
RN
EASTE DRAGON
R
WATE
Eastern water dragons,
which originate from the
eastern coast of Australia,
are not really a “friendly”
pet. They will get used to
their owners, and some gentle
handling may be permitted in
exchange for food after much time and
patience, but generally they are not big on being picked up and
loved. Water dragons are big (up to 1m for males and 80cm for
females, mostly all tail), can live for 25 years and need enough
water to totally submerge in, so they are quite a commitment.
They are hardy creatures and not fussy eaters – but they will
take up a lot of space and time and give little back apart from
looking absolutely fabulous.
Housing:
- Water dragons need a lot of space because they are quite
active. Start juveniles in a tank and upgrade as they grow.
- Tanks need enough water to submerge in completely and
dry areas for basking. Water must be kept at temperature of
15C-24C, and regularly cleaned as dragons go to the toilet in it.
- Water dragons need warmth, up to 35C – too cold and they
won’t eat, too hot and they can overheat and die. Provide heat
lamps for basking