Common gliding lizard
A species of Flying lizards, Also known as Sumatran gliding lizard Scientific name : Draco sumatranus Genus : Flying lizards
Common gliding lizard, A species of Flying lizards
Also known as:
Sumatran gliding lizard
Scientific name: Draco sumatranus
Genus: Flying lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By meenavathyam , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The body length is of about 9 cm (3.5 in), with a slightly longer tail. The body is of a dark grey/brown colouration with stripes and patterns to help it camouflage against the tree trunks. The males have a yellow triangular flap of skin under the chin, the gular fold, which is used to communicate with other lizards, mostly for mating. Females have a much smaller and blue flap.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Common gliding lizard primarily feeds on small arthropods and soft-bodied invertebrates, displaying specialized insectivorous behavior. They show a preference for termites, ants, and aphids, obtained from leaves and tree trunks in their natural habitat.
Appearance
Common gliding lizard has a slim body, reaching up to 23cm, covered in scales. The most distinctive feature of this lizard is its lateral patagia, or 'wings', mostly brown but marked with bursts of yellow and blue. They have a flat tail for steering while gliding. Male common gliding lizard are often brighter in color and larger than their female counterparts.
Behavior
Common gliding lizard exhibits a rare gliding behavior enabled by its rib extensions, which it unfolds while leaping to travel between trees. Males establish territories and display vibrant throat flap or 'dewlap' to ward off competitors and attract females. A primarily insectivorous species, it's also known for its vertical climbing prowess.
Photo By meenavathyam , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dragons Genus
Flying lizards Species
Common gliding lizard