BROWN HORN-HEADED LIZARD
Acanthosaura spp.
DESCRIPTION
Brown Horn-Headed Lizard (Acanthosaura spp.) is commonly known as the Horned Dragon and Spiny Lizard due to its distinctive horn-like structures on the head and spiny scales along its body. This lizard exhibits a robust body with a coloration that typically ranges from brown to green, allowing it to blend into its forested habitat. It is primarily arboreal, often found basking on branches or in foliage, and is known for its quick movements and ability to climb adeptly.
FUN FACTS
- The Brown Horn-Headed Lizard is known for its impressive ability to change color to blend in with its surroundings, which helps it avoid predators
- Additionally, these lizards have a unique display behavior where they puff up their bodies and display their spines when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating to potential threats
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Length20-30 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, with individuals maintaining their own territories
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- This species inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, often favoring areas with dense vegetation. They are typically found in both lowland and montane forests.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Subtropical Forest
- Native Range
- Acanthosaura spp. are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia
- Diet
- The Brown Horn-Headed Lizard primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. It may also consume small fruits and flowers occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, with individuals maintaining their own territories
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
20-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- brown to green with spiny scales and horn-like structures on the head
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males tend to be larger and more colorful than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 5-10 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population status is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and urbanization. Additionally, they may be affected by the pet trade.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, larger lizards
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can quickly escape into trees and use their camouflage to avoid detection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon