By The Philippine Flying Dragon is a fascinating species of lizard known for its ability to glide through the air, captivating the attention of reptile enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This comprehensive care guide and species profile will provide you with all the information you need to know about this unique creature, from its habitat and physical description to its behavior and conservation status. Learn how to properly care for a Philippine Flying Dragon and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable reptile.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Philippine Flying Dragon, scientifically known as Draco volans, is a species of lizard belonging to the Agamidae family. It is native to the forests of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Borneo, and southern India. This remarkable reptile has evolved unique adaptations that enable it to glide from tree to tree, making it one of the most interesting and captivating lizard species in the world.
Geographic Range and Habitat
Geographic Range
The Philippine Flying Dragon is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries such as the Philippines, Borneo, and southern India. This lizard thrives in the Oriental biogeographic region, which encompasses the landscapes of India and Southeast Asia.
Habitat
The ideal habitat for the Philippine Flying Dragon is the rainforest, where it can find an abundance of trees to glide between. This lizard prefers dense, tropical areas that provide a suitable environment for its arboreal lifestyle. The terrestrial biomes in which it thrives include forests and rainforests, where it can be found actively climbing and gliding from tree to tree.
Physical Description and Anatomy
The Philippine Flying Dragon is an elongated and slender lizard, with males reaching an average length of 195 mm, and females growing slightly larger at approximately 212 mm. This length includes the long, slender tail, which measures around 114 mm in males and 132 mm in females.
One of the most distinctive features of this species is the presence of large “wings” along the sides of its body. These wings, or patagia, are supported by elongated ribs, allowing the lizard to glide gracefully through the air. In addition to its wings, the Philippine Flying Dragon also possesses a gular flap, or dewlap, located under its head. This flap of skin is used during displays and can be extended to attract a mate or deter rivals.
The coloration of the Philippine Flying Dragon varies between males and females. Males are generally more vibrant, with a bright yellow dewlap, bluish coloration on the ventral side of their wings, and brown on the dorsal side. Females, on the other hand, have a smaller, bluish-gray dewlap and yellow ventral wing coloration. Both sexes are distinguished by rows of rectangular brown spots on the upper side of their wing membranes and black spots on the underside.
Behavior and Gliding Abilities
Diurnal Activity
The Philippine Flying Dragon is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day. It is most active between the hours of 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM, and again after 1:00 PM until the afternoon. The lizard takes a break from its normal activity between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, possibly to avoid the intense midday sunlight.
Gliding
The most renowned feature of the Philippine Flying Dragon is its ability to glide. The lizard achieves this by climbing a tree, jumping off, and spreading its wings to glide gracefully to the ground or another tree. On average, these lizards can glide for about 8 meters. Gliding is primarily used as a means of locomotion, rather than for escaping predators. They will not glide during rain or windy conditions, opting to climb instead.
Social Behavior
The Philippine Flying Dragon exhibits a range of social behaviors, particularly in relation to mating and territory. Males are generally more active than females during the day and are highly territorial. A male’s territory typically encompasses two to three trees, inhabited by one to three females. Males will defend their territories from other males, particularly those without territories.
When a male encounters another Philippine Flying Dragon, it may display one of five behaviors: 1) partial extension of the gular fold, 2) partial opening of the wings, 3) body bobbing, 4) complete extension of the gular fold and wings, and 5) circling around the female. The first two displays serve to make the lizard appear larger and more intimidating, while the latter three are used to attract a mate.
Reproduction and Mating
The exact timing of the Philippine Flying Dragon’s reproduction is unknown, but it is believed to occur during December and January. Males and occasionally females engage in display behaviors, such as spreading their wings, body bobbing, and extending their dewlap. A male will circle a female three times before attempting to copulate, while a female may display patterns to prevent or stop copulation.
After mating, the female will create a small hole in the soil using her head, where she will lay up to five eggs. She then covers the eggs with dirt and guards them for approximately 24 hours. After this period, the female ceases guarding the eggs, which will incubate for around 32 days before hatching.
Diet and Feeding Habits
The Philippine Flying Dragon is primarily an insectivore, feeding on small ants and termites. It is a sit-and-wait feeder, often positioning itself next to a tree trunk and waiting for its prey to approach. The lizard is able to capture its prey without shifting its body, using its quick reflexes to snatch up insects.
Captive Care and Housing
Caring for a Philippine Flying Dragon in captivity requires careful attention to their unique needs and natural habitat. The following guidelines will help ensure the health and happiness of your captive Flying Dragon:
Enclosure
A spacious vertical enclosure is essential for this arboreal species, with a minimum size of 18x18x36 inches (45x45x90 cm) for a single lizard. Provide plenty of climbing opportunities, such as branches, vines, and cork bark, to mimic their natural environment.
Lighting and Temperature
This tropical species requires a basking spot with a temperature of 85-90°F (29-32°C) during the day, while the ambient temperature should remain between 75-80°F (24-27°C). A drop in temperature to around 70°F (21°C) at night is acceptable. Provide 10-12 hours of UVB lighting daily to ensure proper calcium absorption and overall health.
Humidity and Substrate
Maintain a humidity level of 60-70% in the enclosure, achieved through regular misting and the use of a suitable substrate, such as coconut coir or cypress mulch. A shallow water dish should also be provided for drinking and soaking.
Diet
In captivity, the Philippine Flying Dragon’s diet should consist of a variety of small insects, such as crickets, fruit flies, and small roaches. Gut-load insects and dust them with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure proper nutrition.
Health and Common Illnesses
Like all reptiles, the Philippine Flying Dragon is susceptible to certain health issues. Some common health problems include:
- Metabolic Bone Disease: Caused by a lack of calcium or inadequate UVB lighting, resulting in weakened bones and deformities.
- Respiratory Infections: Often caused by low temperatures or high humidity, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
- Parasites: Both internal and external parasites, such as mites and worms, can affect the health of your lizard.
- Stress: Improper housing, diet, or handling can lead to stress, which may weaken the immune system and make your lizard more susceptible to illness.
Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining proper husbandry will help keep your Philippine Flying Dragon healthy and thriving.
Conservation Status and Threats
The Philippine Flying Dragon is currently not listed as a threatened species on the IUCN Red List. However, like many reptiles, it faces potential threats from habitat loss, deforestation, and the pet trade. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving the natural habitats and ensuring sustainable trade practices.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Despite its name, the Philippine Flying Dragon does not actually fly. Instead, it glides using its patagia to cover distances up to 8 meters.
- Locals in the Philippines often mistakenly believe that the Philippine Flying Dragon is poisonous, though this is not true.
- Adult Philippine Flying Dragons are extremely agile and difficult to capture in the wild.
In conclusion, the Philippine Flying Dragon is a captivating and unique species of lizard that has captured the hearts and minds of reptile enthusiasts worldwide. Understanding their natural habitat, behavior, and proper care requirements will ensure that these incredible creatures continue to thrive both in the wild and in captivity.