The Australian Water Dragon: A Survivor of Two Worlds
The Australian water dragon, with its striking green and brown scales and long, powerful tail, is a reptile that thrives both on land and in water. Found along the eastern coast of Australia, it is often seen basking on riverbanks or darting into streams to escape predators. These dragons are exceptional swimmers, capable of holding their breath underwater for up to 90 minutes.
One water dragon, affectionately named Rex by researchers in Queensland, became famous for his interaction with local humans. Living near a busy park, Rex would emerge every morning to bask on a sunlit rock, seemingly unbothered by the onlookers. What amazed scientists was Rex’s apparent understanding of his surroundings. He learned to time his appearances to avoid peak human activity and even seemed to “pose” for photographs before retreating into the water. Water dragons like Rex showcase the intelligence and adaptability of reptiles living in human-encroached environments.