Australia is renowned for its unique wildlife, and one of these unusual creatures is the Eastern Water Dragon (Intellagama lesueurii).  They are known to inhabit the cliffs and bushes along the walkway to Shelley beach near Manly but I almost never see them out and about.  As you might imagine, this spot is a great location for them since the bay is full of small fish and sea creatures and the rocks, cliffs, and shrubs provide great spots for sunning and nesting.  

Check out the short 13 second video below!

Swimming Abilities

Eastern Water Dragons are semi-aquatic creatures, equally adept at traversing land and water. With webbed feet and a streamlined body, these dragons gracefully glide through the water. Their strong, muscular tails act as rudders, allowing them to change direction swiftly while swimming.  Unfortunately, I have yet to encounter them while snorkeling but I always try to keep an eye out for them!

Breath-Holding Capabilities

One of the most astonishing features of Eastern Water Dragons is their capacity to hold their breath for extended periods. This adaptation is essential for their underwater foraging, which primarily consists of hunting for aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans. The dragons can stay submerged for up to an hour and a half, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike at their prey. This remarkable ability is a testament to their remarkable physiological adaptations.  

Feeding Habits

Eastern Water Dragons are opportunistic predators, taking advantage of the rich marine life surrounding Shelley Beach. Their diet consists of a variety of aquatic creatures, making them integral to the local ecosystem. They patiently stalk their prey along the water’s edge, using their keen eyesight to spot potential meals. Small invertebrates, fish, and even shoreline vegetation are all part of their culinary repertoire.

Here is another short 14 second video below:

Watch for the head bobbing towards the end

Breeding Behavior

Breeding among Eastern Water Dragons is a fascinating and intricate process. In the early months of spring, males become increasingly territorial, defending their chosen area along the shoreline. When a receptive female approaches, courtship rituals begin, often involving head-bobbing displays and other visual cues (You can see the head bobbing in the video above!!). Once courtship is successful, the female will lay her eggs in a concealed nest, often in sandy banks near the water’s edge.

Incubation can take several months, and the temperature during this period plays a crucial role in determining the sex of the hatchlings. Cooler temperatures tend to produce males, while warmer conditions favor females. Upon hatching, the baby dragons are entirely independent, beginning their lives in the wild.

Summary

While they are not an endangered species, the eastern water dragons are protected by the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act so anyone trying to harm or take one is faced with hefty fines of more than $11,000 AUD.   This is wonderful since the area around Manly is quite populated and it’s also a tourist area. 

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed these quick notes on the local water dragons!  Hopefully, I will see them one of these days in the water!