Frill-neck Lizard

The frill-neck lizard is one of Australia’s most iconic reptiles, instantly recognisable by the large, colourful frill around its neck. Normally folded flat, the frill dramatically flares out when the lizard feels threatened or wants to impress a rival or mate, making it look much larger and more intimidating.

They grow to around 45-90cm in length, about two-thirds of which is tail.

Agile and mostly tree-dwelling, these lizards can also dash away on two legs in their famous “frill-run.” Their rough, scaly skin ranges from grey to brown, helping them blend into the woodlands, savannahs, and open forests of northern Australia and southern New Guinea.

Beyond defence and display, the frill also helps with communication and temperature regulation, acting as both a warning flag and a solar panel for this remarkable reptile.

Frill-neck lizards can live for around 20 years.

Habitat 

Their habitat range and environment changes depending on which state or territory you find them in however this species is largely arboreal and relies on trees and termite mounts as both a source of food and protection.

Diet 

In the wild they primarily feed upon insects such as moths and butterflies as well as consume beetles, termites and cicadas. They will also eat spiders, mice and even, other lizards.

Breeding

This species of dragon is oviparous (egg laying), laying clutches of 8-14 eggs. Eggs hatch in approximately 80 days.