The frilled-neck lizard may be one of Australia’s most iconic reptiles. Named after the flappy collar that folds around their neck, this lizard thrives in northern parts of Australia, and southern parts of New Guinea, where it hangs out high up in the treetops. Check out some fun facts about these reptiles above!
The Frilled-Neck Lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii)
Their most note-worthy characteristic is the large frill that appears around their neck.
Normally, the frill stays folded against the lizard's body.
These lizards are arboreal and spend most of their time in trees.
Frilled-neck lizards are fairly large, reaching a max length of 2.79 ft.
Their frills are supported by long spines that connect to the lizard's jaw bones.
These lizards will spread out their frills and display the bright orange and yellow colours around their necks when frightened...
... when attempting to attract a mate...
... during territorial disputes...
... or as a way to ward off predators.
Frilled-neck lizards are mainly found in northern Australia and southern New Guinea.
They thrive in humid climates.
While they prefer trees, they will come down to ground-level to hunt for food, or when having to defend their territory.
Frilled-neck lizards feed primarily on insects and mice.
They are ambush hunters, and lay in wait for prey to stroll by.
Frilled-neck lizards rely on the heat from the sun in order to maintain their body temperature.
Their frill is also thought to help with thermoregulation.
Females lay their eggs in nests built 5 - 20 cm underground.
