brown tree dragons (acanthosaura lepidogaster)

Brown Tree Dragons: Spiky Forest Guardians

Brown tree dragons (Acanthosaura spp.) are forest-dwelling lizards known for their dramatic spiny crests, earthy colors, and arboreal habits. Native to Southeast Asia’s tropical rainforests, these reptiles blend beautifully into their environment and make visually striking additions to naturalistic terrariums. Find them at onestopreptileshop.com.

Acanthosaura Behavior and Personality

These pricklenape agamas stay alert, still, and well-camouflaged among bark and branches. Though not fans of handling, they display fascinating postures and interactions when left undisturbed.

Males can grow to 10–12 inches, while females are slightly smaller. Their ridged backs and sharp scales give them a prehistoric appearance—especially when basking or defending territory.

Ideal Enclosure for Asian Tree Lizards

Brown tree dragons need a vertical, well-planted habitat that mimics the moist forest floor and canopy they naturally roam.

Habitat setup tips:

• Enclosure size: 36″x18″x36″ minimum

• Temps: 75–80°F ambient, low 90s°F basking

• Humidity: 70–90%, with misting 1–2 times daily

• UVB: Required for bone and skin health

• Décor: Branches, logs, live plants, cork bark, elevated hides

• Substrate: Coconut fiber or bioactive forest mix

These dragons appreciate visual cover, vertical climbing options, and shallow water dishes for soaking and drinking.

Feeding the Pricklenape Agama

These reptiles are insectivores with strong visual hunting instincts. They prefer fast-moving prey and need varied nutrition to thrive.

Diet basics:

• Crickets, dubia roaches, soldier fly larvae

• Occasional waxworms or hornworms as treats

• Calcium + D3 dusting 2–3x per week

• Feed juveniles daily, adults every other day

Fresh water should be available daily, and misting may encourage drinking behavior from leaves and enclosure walls.

Why Choose Brown Tree Dragons?

If you’re looking for a display reptile that prefers to observe rather than interact, Acanthosaura species offer exotic visuals and low stress when left to thrive naturally. Their rugged look and secretive behavior make them great for bioactive forest enclosures.

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Conclusion

With their armored crests, subtle coloration, and wild charm, brown tree dragons make excellent inhabitants for lush tropical setups. Their needs are straightforward with proper research, and their appearance alone brings life to any enclosure.

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