Common Flying Dragon (Draco volans)

Named after the flying reptiles of legend, common flying dragons possess elastic flaps of skin attached to either side of their bodies known as patagia. The patagia are supported by the dragons’ ribs and can be extended to allow them to glide between trees. This ability comes in handy in the Southeast Asian rainforest they reside in when they are searching for ants and other insects to eat. Ironically, despite their association with heights, every common flying dragon begins its life on the ground where they hatch from their eggs in a small hole. The males flaunt their patagia and dewlap to attract mates.