Dragons, creatures of legends and folklore, have long captivated human imagination. While they may seem purely mythical, there are some remarkable creatures in the real world that share the name and certain qualities with these mythical beasts. These real-life “dragons” exist in diverse regions, from Southern Africa to Southeast Asia, and have fascinated both scientists and storytellers for centuries.
Smaug Giganteus – The Sungazer Dragon
In the heart of Southern Africa, particularly in South Africa, dwells the enigmatic Sungazer dragon, scientifically known as Smaug giganteus. This species, first described in 1844 by the Scottish naturalist Dr. Sir Alan Smith, is renowned for its formidable appearance, hence the name “Giant Girdled Lizard.” However, it goes by several other intriguing monikers such as Zoë, Lord Derby’s Lizard, or Ourolok.
What sets the Sungazer apart are the rows of ossified, bony scales that adorn its body, creating a protective armor. These keeled scales form uniform rings or girdles around its body, earning it the nickname “Girdled Lizard.” The term “Ourolok” harks back to the ancient Afrikaans language, spoken by early Dutch settlers, and roughly translates to “Old Folk,” alluding to its habit of sitting at the entrance of its burrow, facing the sun for extended periods.
These lizards, though not of gigantic stature, are considered large in comparison to other species in the Cordylidae family. Adults typically reach a size of about 38 centimeters (14.6 inches) from snout to tail tip. They sport a dark brown upper body transitioning to a yellow-straw color on their flanks and underside. Juveniles exhibit a more colorful appearance, marked with yellow and black bars or stripes that fade as they mature.
Draco Volans – The Flying Dragon
Venture to the rainforests and tropical realms of South Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern India, and you may encounter the mesmerizing flying dragon, scientifically referred to as Draco volans. This peculiar lizard is known for its unique ability to glide, a feature that invokes comparisons to the mythical dragons of lore.
The flying dragon boasts a set of “wings” along the sides of its body, which facilitate its gliding maneuvers. These wings are supported by elongated ribs. Additionally, it possesses a gular flap, known as a dewlap, situated beneath its head, which it employs during displays. The body of the flying dragon is highly compressed and elongated, enhancing its aerodynamic abilities.
As for the name “dragon,” these remarkable lizards indeed evoke a sense of wonder and fascination. While they may not breathe fire or hoard treasures, their existence and unique adaptations make them a testament to the incredible diversity of life on our planet.
So, the next time you hear tales of dragons, remember that some of these mythical creatures may have counterparts in the natural world, residing in the far corners of Southern Africa and Southeast Asia, waiting to inspire wonder and awe in those fortunate enough to encounter them.
