Found throughout western and central Australia, this sturdy, ground-dwelling lizard is built for survival in some of the country’s harshest landscapes—dry shrublands, open woodlands, and sandy plains. It has a broad, flattened body, short legs, and a thick tail that stores fat for times when food is scarce. Its scales are beautifully patterned with pale sandy tones and dark brown bands, helping it blend into the dusty outback environment. But its most famous feature is, of course, its brilliant blue tongue, which gives the species its name and serves as its ultimate secret weapon.

When threatened, the Western blue-tongued lizard opens its mouth wide and flashes its vivid blue tongue while hissing loudly—a shocking contrast against the pale pink interior of its mouth. This sudden burst of color startles predators and allows the lizard to escape. The display works so well that even experienced hunters, like birds of prey, are often momentarily confused. If the bluff fails, the lizard flattens its body, enlarges its lungs, or retreats into dense vegetation or an old rabbit burrow—a favorite hiding spot. In fact, this species has adapted to use abandoned rabbit warrens and crevices as shelter from the heat and predators. It’s mostly diurnal, meaning active during the day, and spends its time foraging slowly through the undergrowth for a wide variety of foods.

The Western blue-tongued lizard is a true omnivore, eating a balanced diet of insects, snails, fruits, flowers, and even the occasional carrion. Its powerful jaws are strong enough to crush snail shells and tough beetle carapaces, while its long tongue helps it taste and explore its surroundings.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2017