Identification:
This is a small flying lizard with a body length (SVL) of 70.22 mm and a tail length of 115.8 mm. The throat has a small skin pouch, normally folded down against the chest and extending to the armpit. Large skin flaps are present on the flanks, the anterior edge of which begins at the armpit, and the posterior edge extends to the midpoint of the thigh. These skin flaps are supported by five small ribs. Ventral scales are small, overlapping, and have very prominent keels. The scales at the base of the tail and on the tail are larger and have very prominent keels. Scales on the back, head, and neck are juxtaposed, irregular, and lack keels. The upper surface of the skin flaps ranges in color from orange to pink. Small, irregular black spots are present on the skin flaps and dorsal surface. The underside is pale yellow to pale gray. The body is pale mottled with dark gray spots.
Biology and Ecology:
Unlike other flying lizard species, this species inhabits semi-deciduous, open, dry, lush, and tropical monsoon forests, where there are many large trees, and has been recorded at altitudes up to 2,400 meters above sea level. The main diet consists of ants and larvae, occasionally consuming other insects. Reproduction occurs at the beginning of the rainy season, with 4 to 5 eggs being laid in decaying bark on tree trunks or in crevices.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Cao Bằng (Ngân Sơn), Vĩnh Phú (Tam Đảo), Hà Tây (Ba Vì), Quảng Ninh (Ba Mùn, Cái Bầu), Thừa Thiên Huế (Bạch Mã), Quảng Nam – Đà Nẵng, Lâm Đồng (Di Linh), Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu (Côn Đảo)
- Global: Throughout most of Southeast Asia, extending to Myanmar, Hainan, and Penang.