Fauna
Reptile · GBIF taxon 11019247

Lue's Mountain Lizard

Diploderma luei

Also known as Lue's Japalure, Lue's Tree Lizard, Lue's Dragon

Lue's mountain lizards navigate the cool, moss-draped branches of northeastern Taiwan's high-altitude cloud forests. Males defend territorial perches by displaying vivid yellow gular pouches and performing rhythmic push-up displays to ward off rivals. Their emerald and brown patterning provides blending camouflage among arboreal lichens and epiphytes where they hunt small invertebrates.

EndemicArborealMontane
Lue's Mountain Lizard reference
Licensed reference中華民國(台灣)行政院農業委員會林務局 / Public domain · cc0
—observations
—countries
—peak records
EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Ants
  • Beetles
  • Spiders
Predators
  • Birds of prey
  • Tree snakes
  • Small carnivorous mammals
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, climate change, extremely restricted range
HabitatsSubtropical montane cloud forests, cool high-elevation woodlands
Life span4–8 years
Classification
  1. FamilyAgamidae
  2. SpeciesDiploderma luei
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice
Recognized by its rich green coloration, yellowish throat patch, and prominent spiky neck crest.
Support conservation
Observe quietly from designated forest trails without shaking foliage or attempting to capture wild individuals.
Responsible observation
  • Scan mossy branches: Look carefully along misty, lichen-covered tree trunks and low branches in high-elevation forests.
  • Keep clear of perches: Maintain a respectful distance to avoid causing territorial males to abandon their display posts.
  • Use a long lens: Capture photographs with telephoto equipment rather than approaching close enough to startle the lizard.
Related species
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