Frilled Lizard

Chlamydosaurus kingii

Range

Occurs across northern Australia and southern New Guinea.

Habitat

Subhumid to semi-arid grassy woodlands and dry sclerophyll forests; strongly arboreal and commonly found on tree trunks and limbs.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, eating mainly small invertebrates; small mammals and meat have also been reported.

Facts

• The neck frill can spring open during a threat display, making this otherwise grey-brown lizard immediately conspicuous.
• When disturbed, it may run upright on its hind legs and escape into the trees.
• Although often noticed for its dramatic frill, it is strongly arboreal: tree trunks and limbs are regular places to perch and move.
• Its breeding season is linked to the wet season, and a clutch may contain about 4–13 eggs that incubate for approximately 70 days.
• Useful field marks include long limbs, a moderately long tail, and a conspicuous neck frill; the mouth and tongue may be pink or yellow.

Research sources

• GBIF Backbone Taxonomy
• Chlamydosaurus kingii (Frilled Lizard) | Animal Diversity Web
• www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov