An intriguing reptile native to Australia, the blue-tongue skink is known for its unique appearance and fascinating behaviors. This lizard is a member of the blue-tongue skink family and can be easily recognized by its bulky body, short tail, and rough, bumpy scales that cover its skin, resembling shingles on a roof, hence the name.

One of the most distinctive features of the Shingleback Lizard is its tail, which is unusually short and stubby and closely resembles its head. This is a clever trick of nature, as the tail’s resemblance to the head can confuse predators, making them unsure of which end to attack. The tail also serves as a fat storage depot, which is crucial as it helps the lizard survive during food scarcity.

The Shingleback Lizard has a striking blue tongue that it flashes as a defense mechanism to ward off predators. When threatened, it opens its mouth wide to display this vibrant blue tongue, which contrasts sharply with its dark mouth, startling predators and sometimes deterring them from attacking.

Shingleback Lizards are typically found in arid to semi-arid regions of Australia, preferring open country with plenty of sun and sparse vegetation. They are ground dwellers and are not adept at climbing. Instead, they roam the underbrush and are often found basking on roadsides, which, unfortunately, makes them susceptible to vehicle strikes.

An interesting aspect of the Shingleback Lizard is its approach to reproduction and social behavior. These lizards are known for their monogamous pairing, which is quite rare among lizards. A pair will often reunite season after season to mate, showing a level of loyalty uncommon in the reptile world. The female gives birth to live young, usually one or two large offspring, rather than laying eggs. These baby lizards are relatively large, about a third of the mother’s size, which is unusual for lizards, who typically have numerous, much smaller offspring.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2017