Keeping and breeding of angle-headed forest dragon (Hypsilurus magnus Manthey & Denzer, 2006) at BION Terrarium Center
Hypsilurus magnus Kraus, 2013 also known as angle-headed forest dragon or new Guinea tree dragon is a species of big oviparous Agamidae lizards inhabiting Indonesia and Papua New Guinea (Manthey & Denzer, 2016). Its known distribution includes Papua, Province of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea (Prince Alexander Mts., Huriak, 3.5846°S, 143.5007°E, 68 m asl.; Madang, West Sepik) (https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Hypsilurus&species=magnus). However current distribution still needs to be clarified and updated.
The information that we successfully use and adapt to our facilities was kindly provided by expert in H. magnus and other related species – Ivo Aperteur.
Terrarium. We keep adult H. magnus in pairs, however trios are possible as well, (two males should not be kept together) in vertical terrariums of about 70*70*100 cm (27.5*27.5*39.37 in) with frontal, lateral and upper part made of metal net for proper ventilation. However some breeders use 100*100*100 cm (39.37*39.37*39.37) cubic enclosures. The equipment of the enclosure includes vertical, horizontal and angled branches, live (Dracena sp.) or artificial plants to imitate the atmosphere of green tropical forest and provide visual barriers between animals and keepers. Water dish and feeding dish are always present. Big broad moist chamber with coconut substrate (about 15-20 cm (5.9-7.87 in) deep) that the female can use for making and hiding her clutches. Substrate – mulch with small bark chips. Some big pieces of cork can be added as well.
