Frilled-neck Lizard
Scientific Name: Chlamydosaurus kingii
Category: reptile
Brief Description
A distinctive arboreal lizard famous for the large frill of skin around its neck, which it erects when threatened.
Characteristics
Grey, brown, or orange-brown body matching tree bark, with a long tail and a prominent circular frill folded back against its shoulders. When fully extended, the frill displays vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues.
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical savannas, open woodlands, and forest edges, frequently climbing vertical tree trunks.
When to Find It
Most active during the warm wet months of spring and summer, often spending dry winter months resting higher up in trees.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Ecological Role
Acts as both a predator of insects and small vertebrates, and prey for birds of prey and snakes in tropical Australian ecosystems.
Easily Confused With
Can be confused with other arboreal agamid lizards, but the large skin frill and distinct head shape make it unmistakable when displayed.
Observation Tips
Scan vertical tree trunks in open woodland areas during warm spring afternoons near Cairns; they rely on camouflage until approached closely.
Interesting Facts
When startled, they can run rapidly on their hind legs to reach the safety of the nearest tree trunk.