List of Reptiles in Malaysia

Malaysia is an extremely beautiful and exotic country located just south of Thailand, next to the South China Sea in Southeast Asia. Since Malaysia sits just about 2 to 7 degrees above the equator, the country maintains a tropical climate year-round. The country is home to a wide variety of exotic wildlife in its unspoiled tropical rainforests, and a majority of the animals inhabiting Malaysia's wildlife and nature sanctuaries are reptiles.

  1. Flying Snakes

    • Flying snakes are a very rare and skilled type of reptile that can be found in three different kinds of species in Malaysia. The animal gets its name from its capability to linger in the air for short distances as a means to travel, hide from predators and catch prey. Flying snakes can be seen jumping from high vertical areas, giving the illusion that the animal is gliding.

    Elongated Tortoise

    • Southeast Asia is home to many species of tortoises, such as the elongated tortoise, which can be found in its habitat located near the northern peninsular of Malaysia. Also known as the "yellow headed" tortoise, the elongated tortoise has a unique, sleek profile with a brilliantly bright, creamy yellow-colored head and a tall, rounded dark-colored shell. Although the elongated tortoise is vivid in color, the species is known to have a timid and apprehensive demeanor.

    Malayan Crested Lizard

    • The Malayan crested lizard is a very commonly known and easily identified lizard throughout Southeast Asia. The lizard feasts on insects and can be found living in low- to mid-leveled rainforests perched among various indigenous foliage. The Malayan crested lizard's name comes from its distinctive ribbon-like crest that is more prominent on the heads of males.