Threat Level
Least Concern
(Trachydosurus rugosus)
Habitat
Shingle-back lizards are found in the southern half of Australia, except for eastern and south-eastern coastal areas. It inhabits coastal heaths, dry sclerophyll forests, mallee scrub and Spinifex-dominated sandy deserts. They are diurnal and shelter under fallen timber, leaf litter, and grasses when not active.
Diet
Shingle-back lizards are primarily herbivorous living on a diet of flowers, berries and succulent leaves, however they will opportunistically consume insects and carrion.
Breeding
Shingle-back lizards are highly monogamous, seeking out the same partner year after year. When breeding begins in spring, the male will seek out the female by the scent trails she leaves behind. Although the female can have one to four live young, which are rather large in comparison to mum (combined weight around 1/3 of her body weight), on average she will give birth to only two.
Identification
Medium sized lizard with a short thick tail that is used for storing fat. The tail resembles the shape of the head and works to confuse predators. The scales are dark and rough, resembling the appearance of the pine cone on top however, the under belly is creamy coloured and smooth. It has short legs and its tongue is bright blue.
Display Status
Our Amazing Shingleback Lizard(s) are currently on displayShingleback Lizard Profiles
Shingleback Lizard Profiles
Matilda
Age: 13 Years (DOB 30/11/1999)
Sex: Male
Matilda is one of our eight shingleback's and is identified easily because he is completely black. Matilda is part of our Wandering Wildlife program to teach our guests about these amazing lizards. Shingleback's favourite treat is fresh strawberries.
