[4] H. weberi is the smallest of the three recognized species of Hydrosaurus, attaining an average total length (including tail) of 2–3 ft (0.61–0.91 m).

[citation needed] H. weberi is omnivorous; devouring whatever animal it can overpower plus consuming a variety of vegetation and fruit.

[citation needed] In captivity, juveniles of H. weberi are usually maintained on a 60% insect / 40% vegetation diet.

Adults consume approximately 75% vegetation and 25% insects and other non-vegetation life.

[2] The specific name, weberi, is in honor of German-Dutch zoologist Max Wilhelm Carl Weber van Bosse.