Common Gliding Lizard
About the Common Gliding Lizard in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Common Gliding Lizard (Draco sumatranus), also known as the Sumatran Flying Dragon, is a fascinating, highly arboreal reptile. These sun-loving residents are frequently seen clinging to the trunks of large trees in Singapore's parks and forest edges. Their mottled colours help them blend in with the bark of trees easily.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Common Gliding Lizard!
The Common Gliding Lizard features a heavily mottled, grey and brown body that provides perfect camouflage against tree bark. Males possess a bright yellow, pointed flap of skin under the chin (the gular flag or dewlap), while females have a much smaller, bluish mottled dewlap. When extended, the patagium, colourful membranes of skin supported by elongated ribs, forms the lizard’s gliding “wings.”
Habitat and ecology
They are highly territorial and rarely come down to the ground, except when the female needs to lay and bury her eggs. They spend their days racing up and down tree trunks, hunting specifically for ants and termites. By spreading their ribs, they can glide for over 10-20m from tree to tree to escape predators or move through the forest.
Did you know?
To communicate with rival males or attract a mate, the male will stop on a tree trunk and rapidly flick his bright yellow chin flap in and out, performing a vigorous, rhythmic "push-up" display to show off his size!
Learn more about the Common Gliding Lizard!
Curious about the Common Gliding Lizard? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
