The eastern water dragon is a long-lived, semi-aquatic lizard found from Queensland through New South Wales to eastern Victoria, with a separate Gippsland form. They can live around 25 years and grow to about 1 metre, so they need plenty of space.
Housing
Water dragons need large enclosures with a sizeable water area for swimming plus dry basking areas. In a melamine enclosure provide a large water container and waterproof the base; in an aquarium-style set-up provide adequate water and dry land. Change the water regularly as they often toilet in it. Adults need as big an enclosure as possible - around 2700 x 750mm as a minimum - and can be kept in aviary-style outdoor enclosures once mature. Start juveniles smaller and upsize as they grow.
Heating
Provide a warm end around 35C and a cool end of 25C or below. Too cold and they will not eat; too hot and they can overheat. Day globes, infrared and ceramic globes are all suitable. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer at each end.
Lighting
A quality 5.0 UVB globe is essential for vitamin D and healthy bone development; without it dragons suffer metabolic bone disease. Run UVB on a 10-12 hour daily cycle.
Feeding
Feed appropriately sized crickets and woodies daily, dusted with calcium around three times a week and a multivitamin weekly. Soft-shelled silkworms and giant mealworms (Zophobas) are also good. Offer fruit and vegetables too - favourites include banana, strawberry, mango, raspberry and blueberry, plus soft, shredded vegetables. Avoid iceberg lettuce as it has little nutritional value.
Water quality
In larger water set-ups, good filtration is important to keep the water clean - ask us about suitable aquarium filtration.
Overview
In Queensland a wildlife licence is required to keep a water dragon.
The team at Nick's Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium can help you design a water dragon set-up.
Recommended products
Get set up with the right gear from Nick's Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium: enclosures & supplies, UVB lighting, heating & thermostats, filtration, live feeders and food & supplements. A reptile licence is required in Queensland - see our QLD reptile licence guide.
