Identification:  Pale or dark grey, brownish grey to dull reddish brown with an obscure or absent pattern. If present, the pattern usually consist of a series of large, elongated, pale blotches. The belly is cream, dull yellow to brown and black on mature males. Their large, erectable frill (can be up to 30cm across) that almost completely surrounds the neck is comprised of thin, loose, scaly skin edged by large tooth-like scales. They have a relatively large head and a pointed snout. 

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Widely distributed through most of northern Australia, from the Kimberly region (WA), across northern Northern Territory to northern and eastern Queensland.

Habitat:  Subhumid to semi-arid grassy woodlands and dry eucalypt forests.

Feeding:  Feeds mostly on invertebrates as well as some small vertebrates. Some Frilled Lizards have been observed with the heads of soldier termites attached to their face and lips.

Breeding/Nesting:   Clutches have up to 13 eggs.

Movement:  If disturbed this lizard will run in its distinctive style (on two legs) to the nearest tree or hide beneath low vegetation. Cornered lizards will face its attacker, display it frill, open it brightly coloured mouth and may hiss loudly, stand on hindlimbs, sway from side to side or leap at the aggressor. Mainly lives in trees but can be found foraging on the ground.

Photo:  Queensland DEH

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Queensland Museum (1995) Wildlife of Greater Brisbane, Queensland Museum, Brisbane.

Wilson, S.K. & Knowles, D.G. (1988)
A Photographic Reference to the Terrestrial Reptiles of Australia, Collins Publishers, Australia.