Reptile
Malayan Crested Lizard
Gonocephalus grandisAlso known as Giant Forest Dragon, Great Anglehead Lizard
Malayan Crested Lizards are striking, stream-side arboreal dragons that cling vertically to large tree trunks in primary rainforests. Males display dramatic, sail-like dorsal crests along their neck and back, complemented by brilliant emerald greens and turquoise accents that shift to dark brown under stress. Females and juveniles feature softer mottled green patterns that blend seamlessly into moss-covered bark.
ArborealReptileTropical
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyCrickets, Beetles, Spiders
Predators
- Tree snakes
- Birds of prey
- Monitor lizards
ThreatsDeforestation, habitat fragmentation, and collection for the exotic pet trade
HabitatsLowland tropical rainforests, forest streams, and riverbanks
Life span10–15 years
Classification
- FamilyAgamidae
- SpeciesGonocephalus grandis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of giving a sharp bite or scratch if restrained; observe calmly from a distance.
Responsible observation
- Look Near Streams: Scan large vertical tree trunks immediately adjacent to fast-flowing forest streams.
- Approach Softly: Move slowly, as these lizards quietly pivot to the far side of a trunk when alarmed.
- Watch for Camouflage: Look for subtle eye movements rather than body shapes, as their skin matches mossy bark.
Co-occurs (c) Ian Dugdale, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ian Dugdale · cc-by
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