Fauna
Reptile

Philippine Sailfin Lizard

Hydrosaurus pustulatus

Also known as Philippine Sailfin Dragon

The Philippine Sailfin Lizard is a large semiaquatic lizard with strong limbs, a long compressed tail, and a high sail-like crest most developed in adult males. It rests on branches over water and escapes by diving, swimming, or briefly running across the surface when young.

Semiaquatic LizardSail CrestEndemic Reptile
Philippine Sailfin Lizard reference1 / 5
(c) Forest Botial-Jarvis, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Forest Botial-Jarvis · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyInsects, Crustaceans, Small fish
Predators
  • Large snakes
  • Raptors
  • Monitor lizards
ThreatsRiparian forest loss, water pollution, hunting, pet trade, road mortality, and disturbance
HabitatsVegetated lowland rivers, mangroves, wetlands, tropical forest, and coastal waterways
Life spanLikely 10 years or more, though wild longevity is not well documented
Classification
  1. FamilyAgamidae
  2. SpeciesHydrosaurus pustulatus
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
Do not chase a resting sailfin into water or attempt to capture it.
Responsible observation
  • Look: Scan branches and trunks that lean above shaded water.
  • Crest: Adult males carry the tallest sail along the back and tail.
  • Distance: Stop before the lizard changes posture or prepares to dive.
Related species

Related species have not been added yet.

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