Borneo Angle-headed Lizard (Gonocephalus borneensis)

Common Name: Bornean Forest Dragon
Scientific Name: Gonocephalus borneensis
Source: WC

Adult Size: Typically around 30–40 cm total length

Native Range: Borneo (Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei)

Enclosure: Tall arboreal terrarium; minimum around 90 × 60 × 90 cm with strong branches, vertical climbing surfaces and dense planting

Heating: Basking area around 30 °C; ambient 24 °C; night drop around 20-22 °C

Humidity: 70-90 % with frequent misting and good airflow

UVB: Moderate UVB recommended

Diet: Insectivorous; crickets, roaches, locusts and other feeder insects offered regularly

Water: Fresh water dish available; will drink droplets from misting

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Gonocephalus borneensis is an arboreal agamid lizard native to the tropical rainforests of Borneo. Members of the genus Gonocephalus are commonly referred to as forest dragons due to their distinctive head shape, crests and spiny scales. This species typically shows earthy green, brown or olive tones that help it blend into moss-covered trunks and dense foliage.

The Bornean Forest Dragon spends much of its time perched vertically on tree trunks or branches where it remains motionless for long periods. This behaviour, combined with its natural camouflage, helps it avoid predators while waiting for insects to pass within range.

Like other rainforest agamids, the species relies on humid forest conditions and dense vegetation. It moves between branches and trunks during the day while searching for prey, often staying close to shaded areas within the canopy. Enclosures that emphasise vertical structure, dense planting and stable humidity best reflect the environments these lizards occupy in the wild.