Lizards: The Camouflage Experts of Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is home to a fascinating variety of lizard species, each showcasing incredible adaptations to their tropical rainforest habitat. The dense foliage and humid environment make it the perfect sanctuary for these reptiles. Below is a glimpse into the diverse lizard species you might encounter while exploring this lush, vibrant ecosystem.

1. Green Flying Lizard (Draco maculatus)

Description: This species has a slender, light green body with wing-like flaps on its sides, allowing it to glide effortlessly between trees.

Habitat: Commonly found in dense tropical forests, particularly in areas with tall trees that provide ample gliding opportunities.

Diet: Primarily feeds on insects and spiders found on tree trunks and branches.

Behavior: Uses its extended ribs to glide long distances, avoiding predators and efficiently hunting prey.

 

2. Brown-winged Gliding Lizard (Draco volans)

Description: A brown-bodied lizard with intricately patterned wings that blend seamlessly into the forest environment.

Habitat: Prefers open forests with tall trees, offering suitable conditions for gliding.

Diet: Feeds on flying insects commonly found in forested areas.

 

3. Oriental Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor)

Description: Males display striking red or orange throat coloration during the breeding season, while females exhibit a more subdued greenish-gray hue.

Habitat: Found in open woodlands, lowland forests, and along forest edges.

Diet: Consumes a variety of insects, including flies, butterflies, and caterpillars.

Behavior: Capable of changing its body color for camouflage and communication, particularly when attracting mates.

 

4. Blue-winged Gliding Lizard (Draco blanfordii)

Description: Males have distinctive pale blue wings, making them stand out among other gliding lizards.

Habitat: Prefers dense, humid forests with tall trees that provide suitable gliding spaces.

Diet: Feeds on beetles and small tree-dwelling insects.

 

5. Red-headed Agama (Bronchocela cristatella)

Description: Recognizable by its vivid red or pink head and light green body, which helps it camouflage within lush vegetation.

Habitat: Thrives in dense forests, particularly near water sources like streams and swamps.

Diet: Predominantly consumes beetles and small insects found on tree bark.

Behavior: Has the ability to change color slightly to blend with its surroundings, allowing it to evade predators effectively.

 

6. Striped Gliding Lizard (Draco quinquefasciatus)

Description: Characterized by striped wings and a light brown body, which aids in natural camouflage.

Habitat: Inhabits humid forests with sparse tree cover, enabling easy gliding.

Diet: Feeds primarily on beetles and insect larvae found on tree surfaces.

Behavior: Skillfully glides from one tree to another, hunting for insects in the forest canopy.