Frilled-neck Lizard

The frilled-neck lizard is a striking and unmistakable Australian reptile famous for the large, colourful frill around its neck. This frill is normally folded back but can be rapidly expanded when the lizard feels threatened or is displaying during territorial or mating behaviors. When the frill is extended, the lizard looks much bigger and more intimidating to predators or rivals.

They have long limbs and tails, and a slender body covered with rough, scaly skin ranging in colour from brown to grey with lighter spots or stripes. These agile lizards are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time in trees, but they are also capable of quick, bipedal running when threatened, often described as a “frill-run.” Their diet mainly consists of insects and small vertebrates.

Frilled-neck lizards are also known for their remarkable speed and agility. When escaping predators, they will often sprint away on their hind legs with their frill extended, creating an impressive and unusual sight. They inhabit a variety of environments, including tropical woodlands, savannahs, and open forests mainly in northern Australia and southern New Guinea. Their ability to climb and run fast helps them evade many predators, including birds of prey and snakes.

The frill serves multiple functions: as a defence mechanism, a communication tool, during mating displays and even body temperature regulation. When scared or confronted, the lizard will open its mouth wide, showing a bright pink or orange inside of the frill, accompanied by hissing and body puffing, creating an intimidating visual spectacle. By extending their frill, they can also increase surface area exposed to the sun, allowing them to warm up faster in cooler conditions. 

Did You Know?

Frilled-neck lizards can detach their tails if caught by a predator, a process called autotomy. They then slowly regrow a new one over time, giving them a second chance to escape danger.