A group of agamid lizards belonging to the genus Hydrosaurus are frequently referred to as water dragons. These reptiles were originally found in Southeast Asia. Both the Hydrosaurus amboinensis and the Hydrosaurus pustulatus are recognized as separate species within the genus.
Adult Hydrosaurus lizards can grow to be up to one meter in length, making them massive reptiles with formidable strength. They have long, powerful legs and prehensile tails, which let them to climb and hold onto trees. This allows them to live an arboreal existence, which is well fitted to them. Also, they are fantastic swimmers, and you may frequently see them in the areas surrounding rivers and other bodies of water.
These lizards consume a wide range of plant stuff in addition to insects, small animals, and even other species of lizards as part of their omnivorous diet. Moreover, it is known that they will feed on carrion.
Although Hydrosaurus lizards are common in the pet trade due to their popularity, keeping one as a pet may be difficult and time-consuming due to their large size and specific dietary requirements. They require a spacious enclosure with plenty of places for them to climb as well as access to water so that they may swim. Before even considering the possibility of introducing an exotic animal into your home, you need to do some research on it and become familiar with its requirements.
Table of Contents
Temperature needs
Ectothermic creatures, like Hydrosaurus lizards, have their body temperature controlled by the environment around them. This implies that the lizards’ bodies are always at the optimal temperature. In the wild, they seek out the sun to get heated and then look for places with shade or that are colder when they want to cool off.
When animals are kept in captivity, it is essential to offer a temperature gradient within their cage. This allows the animals to select the environment at which they are able to feel the least stressed. The temperature in the chilly end of the cage should be around 26-30 degrees Celsius (78-86 degrees Fahrenheit), while the basking region should be heated to approximately 35-40 degrees Celsius (95-104 degrees Fahrenheit). The temperature should be kept between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius (68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit) during the night.
It is essential to have a dependable thermometer in order to monitor the temperature within the enclosure, and it is equally essential to make any necessary modifications in order to guarantee that the temperature gradient does not change.
It is also crucial to supply a source of UVB radiation, as this is required for the production of vitamin D3, which is required for the absorption of calcium and for general health. It is recommended that the UVB light be on for ten to twelve hours each day, and that it be changed every six to twelve months.
Tank size needs
Because they are huge and energetic animals, hydrosaurus lizards need a significant amount of area in which to move about and exercise. It is advised that an enclosure with a minimum size of 8 feet in length, 4 feet in width, and 6 feet in height be used for a single adult Hydrosaurus. Nonetheless, larger enclosures are almost usually preferable, and housing a group of Hydrosaurus would need for a much larger space.
Because Hydrosaurus lizards are arboreal and spend a lot of their time climbing, it is essential to provide them with lots of possibilities to do so within their cage. The lizards should have the ability to travel both horizontally and vertically within the cage. This may be accomplished by providing branches, vines, and other structures.
It is essential to take into consideration, in addition to the dimensions of the enclosure, the furniture and substrate that will be utilized within it. The substrate in which Hydrosaurus lizards are kept must be able to retain moisture and must simulate their native habitat. Either coconut coir, cypress mulch, or a combination of the two can be an effective mulching material.
It is essential to clean the enclosure on a regular basis in order to preserve proper hygiene and avoid the formation of bacteria that might be hazardous. Also, the enclosure should undergo spot cleaning on a regular basis in addition to full cleaning and disinfection every few weeks.
In general, it is crucial to the health and well-being of Hydrosaurus lizards to provide a big enclosure that is also well-furnished for them to live in.
Lighting needs
In order to keep their health in excellent condition, Hydrosaurus lizards must have access to UVB lights. The production of vitamin D3, which is required for both the absorption of calcium and general health, requires UVB illumination, which is essential for its production.
It is recommended that a fluorescent UVB lamp be utilized, and that it be positioned within the cage so that the lizards may take advantage of the warm light. Even though the light bulb seems to be functioning OK, it should be changed every six to twelve months since, with time, the amount of UVB radiation it emits will decrease.
Hydrosaurus lizards should be exposed to between 5 and 10% UVB according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. The intensity of the UVB bulb ought to be adjusted so that it is suitable for the size of the cage as well as the distance that separates the basking area from the bulb. It is essential to verify that the bulb is positioned appropriately and that the lizards are getting a suitable amount of UVB exposure by carefully following the directions provided by the maker of the bulb.
It is essential to have a source of heat for basking, in addition to UVB lights, for the reptiles in your care. The ideal temperature for basking is between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius (95 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit), and you may achieve this by using a heat lamp or a ceramic heater. The temperature ought to be controlled by the use of a thermostat in order to avoid being too hot.
It is essential to imitate the natural day-night cycle by providing a photoperiod that consists of 10-12 hours of darkness followed by 10-14 hours of light each day. This helps to regulate the circadian cycles of the lizard and is beneficial to its overall health.
substrate needs
The substrate in which Hydrosaurus lizards are kept must be able to retain moisture and must also simulate their native habitat. The following are some possibilities for substrates that are appropriate:
Coconut coir is a common substrate that is produced from the fibrous husk of coconuts. It is used to grow a variety of plants. It is sustainable, good for the environment, and has a high capacity for retaining moisture. It is simple to clean and replace, and it may function either on its own or in conjunction with a variety of different substrates.
Mulch produced from shredded cypress trees is another common type of substrate. This type of mulch is known as cypress mulch. It does a good job of retaining moisture and is simple to clean and replace. In addition to that, it is sustainable and good for the environment.
Bioactive Substrate is a naturalistic substrate that contains living plants, microfauna, and other organic components. It is also known as a natural substrate. This sort of substrate creates an environment that is self-cleaning and encourages natural activities, but it calls for a more complicated installation and ongoing care process.
Newspaper and paper towels are two choices that are simple to remove and replenish, but they do not provide an atmosphere that is representative of nature and may not be as effective at retaining moisture as other substrates.
It is essential to steer clear of substrates that might be eaten by the lizard, such as sand or loose gravel, because these things have the potential to induce impaction if they are consumed. Avoid using substrates that the lizard might find poisonous or hazardous, such as pine or cedar shavings. These should be avoided at all costs.
It is important that the substrate be at least a few inches deep in order to provide the lizards enough room to burrow and make their own hiding spots. Daily spot cleaning of the substrate, along with total replacement and disinfection of the substrate every few weeks, is recommended.
Food needs
The Hydrosaurus lizards are classified as omnivores, which implies that they consume both plant- and animal-based items in their diets. While they are kept in captivity, their diet should include a wide variety of foods in order to provide them with the full complement of nutrients that their bodies require. The following are some examples of foods that are appropriate for consumption by Hydrosaurus lizards:
Insects: Hydrosaurus lizards may consume a variety of insects, including crickets, mealworms, waxworms, superworms, and roaches. Before giving insects to lizards, they have to have their digestive systems fortified with diets high in various nutrients.
Vegetables: Hydrosaurus lizards do well when fed dark leafy greens such as collard greens, kale, and mustard greens. Other dark greens, such as spinach, are not recommended. Additional veggies that are appropriate for consumption include carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and squash.
Fruits: As a special treat, Hydrosaurus lizards can be given bite-sized pieces of fruit to consume. Bananas, papayas, mangoes, and berries are some examples of fruits that are appropriate for consumption.
As a source of protein, Hydrosaurus lizards can be given a little bit of cooked chicken, turkey, or fish if it has been prepared properly.
It is essential to give a diet that is well-rounded that include nutrients derived from both animal and plant sources. In order to guarantee that the lizards are receiving an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D3, dietary supplements of both of these elements should also be offered. When giving lizards foods like insects and vegetables, it is best practice to coat them with a powder containing calcium and vitamin D3 and shake off the excess.
The amount of food that should be given to Hydrosaurus lizards depends on their age as well as their size. Juveniles, in comparison to adults, have a greater need for more frequent feedings. It is essential to keep a close eye on their weight and make necessary adjustments to their feeding quantities in order to guarantee that they are able to keep a healthy weight.
Do babies need different types of food? or more food?
In comparison to adults, young Hydrosaurus lizards have a greater need for more frequent feedings of smaller portions of food. Depending on their age and size, newborn Hydrosaurus lizards should be fed either once per day or once every other day as a general rule. As they get older and more mature, the amount of times they need to be fed can be decreased to once every two to three days, and then finally to once every two to three days per week as adults.
In addition, the amount of food that is provided to young Hydrosaurus lizards should be less and it should be provided more often than it would be to an adult. This is due to the fact that their digestive systems are more immature and underdeveloped, as well as the fact that they require more energy in order to grow and develop.
It is essential to provide a selection of prey items that are small and of an adequate size when one is feeding young Hydrosaurus lizards. Some examples of such prey items are small crickets, small mealworms, and small roaches. In order to guarantee that they are consuming a diet that is nutritionally sound, it is essential to provide them with little portions of fresh vegetables and fruit. It is essential to sprinkle their meals with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, just like it is with people, to make sure that they are getting all of the necessary nutrients for their continued growth and development.
How To Keep a Hydrosaurus Healthy
In order to maintain the health of your Hydrosaurus lizards, you will need to provide them with suitable housing, a well-balanced diet, and good husbandry. The following are some suggestions for maintaining the health of Hydrosaurus lizards:
Appropriate Housing: Hydrosaurus lizards need a spacious habitat that is secure and well-ventilated. The lighting and temperature gradients inside the enclosure should also be acceptable. The enclosure need to be kept tidy at all times and clear of any potentially harmful substances.
Dietary Variety Hydrosaurus lizards require a varied diet that consists of both animal and plant-based meals in order to maintain a healthy body. In order to guarantee that they are getting the correct nourishment, their diet ought to be augmented with calcium and vitamin D3.
Hydration is essential for Hydrosaurus lizards, thus they must always have access to clean water. In addition, a consistent misting or soaking can help them retain the appropriate level of hydration in their bodies.
Temperature and Lighting: Hydrosaurus lizards require a temperature gradient within their cage, with a basking region that reaches 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit and a colder side that runs between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The lighting must be bright enough for the lizards to see at night. It is essential to provide them with adequate illumination, which must include UVB lighting, in order to protect their health and avoid metabolic bone disease.
Monitoring Their Health It is essential that you check on the health of your Hydrosaurus lizards on a regular basis. This involves keeping an eye on their behavior as well as their hunger and weight. It is important to respond quickly to any changes that occur in their health or behavior.
Checkups at the Veterinarian’s Office It is essential to make appointments at the office of a veterinarian who is knowledgeable in the care of reptiles for frequent checkups. They are able to offer advice on appropriate care and food, as well as diagnose and treat any potential health problems that may occur.
Cleaning Their Tank
The cleanliness of the cage is quite necessary if you want to keep your Hydrosaurus lizards in good health. The following are some suggestions for cleaning their tank:
Remove Any Debris: On a regular basis, clear the enclosure of any excrement, uneaten food, and dead skin that has fallen off the animal. Because of this, potentially hazardous germs will not be able to thrive, and the cage will remain clean.
Cleaning Individual Areas You should use a disinfectant cleaner that is suitable for reptiles to clean individual portions of the substrate that have become filthy. This ought to be done once every few days or as often as is required.
Thorough Cleaning It is recommended that the whole enclosure be emptied and cleaned completely once every four to six weeks. Take out all of the decorations, the substrate, and any other objects that are in the enclosure, and then clean them using a cleaner that contains a disinfectant. Before placing anything back inside the cage, give it a thorough rinsing in water and then give it some time to dry.
Cleaning and disinfecting: When cleaning the cage and any things kept within, be sure to use a disinfectant that is appropriate for reptiles. If you want to be sure that the disinfecting cleaner is safe for reptiles, make sure to read the directions on the bottle very carefully.
AVOID USING HARSH CHEMICALS: To protect your Hydrosaurus lizards from potential injury, steer clear of using any harsh chemicals or cleaning products that are not designed for use with reptiles.
Handwashing: In order to prevent the transmission of germs, you should always wash your hands before and after handling your Hydrosaurus lizards or the enclosure in which they are kept.
Hydrosaurus life span
In comparison to many other types of reptiles, the lifespan of a Hydrosaurus lizard is quite long. They may survive in captivity for up to ten to fifteen years if they are given the correct care.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that the longevity of a Hydrosaurus lizard may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as its genetics, nutrition, environment, and overall state of health. You can help your pet live a longer and healthier life by giving it the necessary care, which includes giving it a diet that is balanced, providing it with an enclosure that is roomy and suited for its needs, and taking it to the veterinarian on a regular basis for checkups.
It is also crucial to note that the lifetime of a Hydrosaurus lizard in the wild may be different from those kept in captivity. This is because wild animals confront additional problems and risks, such as being eaten by predators, contracting diseases, and losing their environment.
Is my Hydrosaurus Happy? how can I tell if its upset
Due to the fact that reptiles do not display their emotions in the same manner that people do, it can be challenging to identify whether a Hydrosaurus lizard is happy or unhappy. On the other hand, there are particular behaviors that can provide insight into a Hydrosaurus lizard’s state of health and wellbeing.
The following behaviors will be displayed by a Hydrosaurus lizard that is in good condition and is not unhappy:
A healthy Hydrosaurus lizard will be awake and active, with bright, clear eyes, and receptive to their environment. They will also have vibrant coloration in their eyes.
Appetite: A healthy Hydrosaurus lizard will have a healthy appetite and will aggressively seek for their food. This behavior indicates that the lizard is in good health.
The cage of Hydrosaurus lizards must have a basking area, and a healthy lizard will spend some of its time basking beneath the heat lamp.
Exploration: A fit and healthy Hydrosaurus lizard will investigate its surroundings and participate in natural activities such as climbing and digging.
Shedding: A Hydrosaurus lizard in good condition will routinely shed its skin, and when it does, the lost skin will come off in one piece.
On the other hand, if a Hydrosaurus lizard isn’t feeling well or is under a lot of stress, it could behave in the following ways:
Inactivity: A Hydrosaurus lizard that is sick or under a lot of stress may be less active than normal. They may also have a smaller appetite and less interest in their surroundings.
Aggression: A Hydrosaurus lizard that is under a great deal of stress or is not feeling well may display aggressive actions such as biting or hissing.
Hiding: A Hydrosaurus lizard that is not well or that is under a lot of stress may spend more time hiding or burrowing.
Absence of shedding: If a Hydrosaurus lizard is sick or under a lot of stress, it is possible that they will have trouble shedding their skin. This can be an indication of a health problem.
If you see any of these indicators, it is probably a good idea to check with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable in treating reptiles to assess whether or not your Hydrosaurus lizard needs to be seen by a doctor or whether or not its normal care routine has to be altered in any way.
Handling Ettiquette
It is possible to handle Hydrosaurus lizards; nevertheless, it is essential to handle them gently and with regard for the lizards’ well-being at all times. Here are some recommendations for managing your Hydrosaurus lizard:
Approach slowly: To prevent your Hydrosaurus lizard from becoming startled, you should always approach it in a gentle and peaceful manner.
Make use of both hands: As you pick up your lizard, be sure to support its body with both hands. Put one hand under its tummy, the other under its breast or behind its front legs, and hold it there with both hands.
Avoid grasping the tail: Do not grab the lizard’s tail when picking it up, since it may detach or hurt the lizard.
Be careful not to injure the lizard by squeezing it too hard; instead, hold it softly and firmly, but not too tightly.
As you are holding your lizard, make sure to keep it low to the ground so that it does not jump or fall, which might cause harm.
Handling should be restricted to brief periods of time in order to prevent the lizards from being overly stressed. This is especially important when dealing with young or timid lizards.
Cleanse your hands: In order to prevent the transmission of any germs or bacteria, you should always wash your hands before and after touching your lizard.
Keep in mind that not all lizards love being handled, and it is essential to show proper respect for their personal space. Because handling might cause certain Hydrosaurus lizards to become anxious or aggressive, it is necessary to monitor the behavior of these reptiles and alter your techniques of handling accordingly. If your lizard exhibits indications of stress or hostility, it is probably best to refrain from handling it and instead focus on enjoying observing it in its habitat as much as possible.
Appearance
The Hydrosaurus lizards are easily distinguished from other types of lizards due to their one-of-a-kind look. The following is a list of some of the most important physical traits of Hydrosaurus lizards:
Size: Male Hydrosaurus lizards may reach a length of up to 3 feet, while females can reach a length of up to 2 feet. Size is a relative term.
Physical shape: Hydrosaurus lizards have a body shape that is long and thin, with a robust tail and strong limbs for climbing and swimming. They also have a powerful tail.
Hydrosaurus lizards have rough and scaly skin that has a textured look and can range in hue from brown to green to gray. Their skin also has a textured appearance.
The skull of a Hydrosaurus lizard is triangular in form, and it has a pointed snout with teeth that are pointed inward.
Eyes: Their eyes are huge and spherical, and they are positioned on the side of their head, which provides them with a wide field of view.
Crest: Hydrosaurus lizards have a characteristic bony crest that runs up their back and may be raised or lowered depending on how they are feeling at any given moment.
Its tail is long and strong, and it may be employed in a variety of ways, including for defense, swimming, and maintaining balance.
how big do they get
As compared to other species of lizards, Hydrosaurus lizards have the potential to reach a size that is considered to be rather enormous. The actual size of a Hydrosaurus lizard can vary based on its sex, age, and other other characteristics; nevertheless, the following are typical size ranges that are generally considered accurate:
Mature male Hydrosaurus lizards can reach a length of up to three feet, including their tails, and weigh between three and four pounds. Males are larger than females.
Females: Mature female Hydrosaurus lizards are somewhat shorter and lighter than males, measuring an average of 2 feet in length (including the tail) and weighing anywhere between 2 and 3 pounds. Males measure an average of 2.5 feet in length (including the tail).
Juveniles: When they are first hatched, young Hydrosaurus lizards are rather short, measuring only around 6 to 8 inches in length. They have rapid development throughout their first year, and by the time they become one year old, they may reach lengths of up to one foot.
In order for Hydrosaurus lizards to be able to engage in their natural behaviors like climbing and swimming, they need a large cage that gives them plenty of room to roam about in. This fact is very important to keep in mind. Because of their increased size and amount of activity, they are going to require a larger enclosure as they continue to mature.
Colors
There are a number of factors that might influence a Hydrosaurus lizard’s colors, including gender, age, and environment. Nonetheless, the following is a list of some of the more typical color patterns and variants that are seen in Hydrosaurus lizards:
Green: The scales of many Hydrosaurus lizards are green, and the shade of green they are can range from a neon green to a forest green that is much deeper. Because of its coloring, the lizard is able to more easily fit in with its natural surroundings.
Brown: Certain Hydrosaurus lizards have scales that are brown or tan, which allows them to better blend in with their surroundings and avoid being preyed upon by other animals.
Gray: Some of the individuals may have a gray or bluish-gray colouring, which can also function as a method of concealment.
Yellow: Certain Hydrosaurus lizards have scales that are yellow or orange, which can provide an eye-catching contrast with the green or brown environment in which they live.
Spots and stripes: Certain Hydrosaurus lizards may have spots or stripes on their scales, which can add to the overall pattern and look of the lizard. Spots and stripes can be seen on the scales.
It is important to keep in mind that the colors of Hydrosaurus lizards might shift based on their surroundings, their state of mind, or their physical health. A lizard that is under a lot of stress or sick may have a colour that is more muted or faded, whereas a lizard that is well and gets enough of food may have scales that are brighter and more colorful.
Babies
Baby Hydrosaurus lizards, which are also referred to as hatchlings, are extremely sensitive and need to be handled with extreme caution to protect both their health and their well-being. The following is a list of important information on baby Hydrosaurus lizards:
Size: Hydrosaurus lizard hatchlings are rather tiny, measuring between 6 and 8 inches in length when they first emerge from their eggs.
Care: Baby Hydrosaurus lizards need to be carefully watched and attended to at all times to ensure that they are getting enough to eat and drink and are developing normally. They require regular feedings, often once or twice a day, with food that is adequate for their size, but only in very little amounts.
Hydrosaurus lizard kids require a good environment that is secure, warm, and offers enough humidity. This enclosure must meet all of these requirements. It is imperative that the cage be devoid of any potential dangers or pointed things that can hurt the fragile newborn lizards.
Heat and illumination: In order to maintain their health and maintain a healthy body temperature, young Hydrosaurus lizards require access to a heat source as well as lighting that emits UVB rays.
Hydrosaurus lizard babies are sociable creatures and benefit from association with other lizards of the same species. Socialization is accomplished by play with other members of the same species. On the other hand, they shouldn’t be kept in the same enclosure as adult lizards because it might lead to aggressiveness and injuries.
It is essential to keep in mind that taking care of baby Hydrosaurus lizards can be difficult at times and calls for a large investment of both time and attention. If you are thinking about adopting a Hydrosaurus lizard as a pet, it is probably best to begin with an adult lizard. An adult lizard is already accustomed to its surroundings and requires less extensive care than a younger lizard would.
How Much do they cost
Between 300 to 1500 dollars
Baby Hydrosaurus lizards, which are also referred to as hatchlings, are extremely sensitive and need to be handled with extreme caution to protect both their health and their well-being. The following is a list of important information on baby Hydrosaurus lizards:
Size: Hydrosaurus lizard hatchlings are rather tiny, measuring between 6 and 8 inches in length when they first emerge from their eggs.
Care: Baby Hydrosaurus lizards need to be carefully watched and attended to at all times to ensure that they are getting enough to eat and drink and are developing normally. They require regular feedings, often once or twice a day, with food that is adequate for their size, but only in very little amounts.
Hydrosaurus lizard kids require a good environment that is secure, warm, and offers enough humidity. This enclosure must meet all of these requirements. It is imperative that the cage be devoid of any potential dangers or pointed things that can hurt the fragile newborn lizards.
Heat and illumination: In order to maintain their health and maintain a healthy body temperature, young Hydrosaurus lizards require access to a heat source as well as lighting that emits UVB rays.
Hydrosaurus lizard babies are sociable creatures and benefit from association with other lizards of the same species. Socialization is accomplished by play with other members of the same species. On the other hand, they shouldn’t be kept in the same enclosure as adult lizards because it might lead to aggressiveness and injuries.
It is essential to keep in mind that taking care of baby Hydrosaurus lizards can be difficult at times and calls for a large investment of both time and attention. If you are thinking about adopting a Hydrosaurus lizard as a pet, it is probably best to begin with an adult lizard. An adult lizard is already accustomed to its surroundings and requires less extensive care than a younger lizard would.
