Draco volans LINNAEUS 1758

Common FlyingDragon

Species recognized by P Uetz, TIGR Reptile Database external link in 
IUCN Red List Status: NOT EVALUATED external link Showing: scientific names

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Draco volans LINNAEUS 1758

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General Description

Wings enable glide: flying dragon

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©2008-2009, The Biomimicry Institute. Some rights reserved external link
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The Biomimicry Institute
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Special elongated ribs of the flying dragon lizard enable it to glide via adjustable membranes that act as 'wings'.

   
  "The 'wings' of this spectacular lizard are made from membranes stretched between a series of specially elongated ribs that act as struts. The end result bears uncanny resemblance to early designs for aircraft wings, but the lizard's version is far more sophisticated since its wings can be opened and closed at will. The lizard's flattened body improves its aerodynamics, and its slender tail acts as a counterbalance. On average, each flight carries it roughly 25 feet (8m)" (Downer 2002:30)

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References
  • Downer, J. 2002. Weird Nature: An Astonishing Exploration of Nature's Strangest Behavior. Ontario: Firefly Books.
"Draco volans LINNAEUS 1758". Encyclopedia of Life, available from "http://www.eol.org/pages/1056379". Accessed 21 Mar 2010.