The Eastern Water Dragon is a common semi-aquatic, arboreal lizard. The largest dragon lizard in Australia, males can be distinguished by their larger size and red chest, growing up to one metre in length. with a long, strong tail that grows up to 2.5 times the body length.

Common throughout its range this lizard is most often found around the margins of creeks, rivers and lakes, usually seen on rocks, logs, or overhanging branches.

Feeds on a variety of insects and aquatic organisms, including frogs as well as other small terrestrial vertebrates, and fruits.

Extremely wary, this dragon will drop many metres into water from overhanging vegetation if approached.