Scientific name:
Chlamydosaurus kingii
Other names:
Frill-neck, Frilly
Diet:
Insectivore (Caterpillars, moths, beetles, cicadas)
Max Length:
~90 cm
Habitat:
Tropical forests, woodlands
Status:
Least Concern
The Frilled Neck Lizard is an Australian icon, famously appearing on the old 2-cent coin. Known for its elaborate threat display, this dragon lizard (a cousin of the Bearded Dragon) is a master of bluffing its way out of trouble.
The “frill” is a large flap of skin supported by spines connected to the jaw. When the lizard opens its mouth, the frill snaps open, making the lizard look three times larger. Did you know? The colour of the frill varies by region. Lizards in the Kimberleys (WA) often have deep red/orange frills (matching the iron-rich clay), while those in Queensland are often yellow or grey.
Bluff and Run The Frilled Neck Lizard spends 90% of its time clinging to tree trunks, relying on camouflage. If spotted, it follows a defense protocol:
- Freeze.
- The Display: Open the mouth, hiss, and erect the frill.
- The Run: If the bluff fails, the lizard turns and sprints toward the nearest tree. Uniquely, they run bipedally (on two hind legs) for speed!
They are primarily insectivores, eating caterpillars, cicadas, and termites. They are visual hunters, sitting on trees and watching for movement below.
Found in the tropical forests of Northern Australia. They rely heavily on trees and are rarely found in open areas far from vertical cover.
Is the Frilled Neck Lizard dangerous?
No. The display is entirely a bluff. They have no venom and possess a relatively weak bite.
Do they run on two legs all the time?
No. They usually walk on all four legs. The bipedal run is a high-speed sprint used only for escaping danger.
An Australian Icon: As finalists in the Australian Small Business Champion awards, Melbourne’s Mobile Zoo prides itself on high-standard education. Book a school incursion today to see this amazing lizard in action.
Reptile Encounters would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, the people of the Kulin Nation, who have never ceded sovereignty. This always was and always will be Aboriginal land.