Better known by its epic nickname, the Sungazer, it is one of the most extraordinary reptiles in Africa. Endemic to the grasslands of South Africa, this lizard truly lives up to its dragon-inspired genus name, Smaug. It is the largest of all girdled lizards and is instantly recognizable by its armored, spiny scales that run down its back and tail. These scales give it a tough, prehistoric look, almost as if it walked straight out of a fantasy novel. Unlike smooth, sleek lizards that dart across walls and trees, the Giant girdled lizard has a stocky body, short limbs, and a heavily spined tail that it uses as both armor and a weapon.

One of the most unique things about the Giant girdled lizard is its unusual lifestyle. Unlike many lizards that climb trees or live under rocks, the Sungazer spends most of its time in burrows that it digs into the ground in open grasslands. These burrows can be deep and are used both for shelter and protection. When it emerges, the lizard often takes up a regal posture, sitting semi-upright at the entrance of its burrow, basking in the sun and scanning the horizon. This behavior has earned it the name “Sungazer,” as it looks like a wise little dragon keeping watch over its kingdom.

Diet-wise, the Giant girdled lizard is mostly insectivorous, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, and other arthropods it finds while foraging near its burrow. Occasionally, it may eat smaller vertebrates, but its primary role is as an insect controller in its ecosystem. Unlike snakes or fast-moving lizards, it doesn’t chase prey over long distances—instead, it relies on patience, short bursts of speed, and powerful jaws to snap up its meals. Its burrow-based life also makes it more sedentary than many other lizards, which helps it conserve energy in the often harsh and hot grassland climate.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

South Africa

677,000

Official estimate

VU

2021

Mpumalanga, Free State