The highly successful Stumpy-tail Lizard, Tiliqua rugosa

Also known as the Shingleback, Bobtail, Sleepy Lizard, Pinecone Lizard and the Boggi.

They occur in the drier regions of five States and do remarkably well in built-up areas, living under houses, in pipes, under vegetation, rocks or logs. They are omnivores and happily eat snails, slugs and caterpillars, they also consume a large selection (more than most reptiles) of vegetation, flowers and fruits. Although you might not want a Stumpy-tail in your strawberry patch, they are otherwise excellent for keeping many plant-eating pests under control.

These lizards are a dentist's delight. If you say open wide, the head almost separates in two, showing strong muscles and a broad fleshy purple/blue tongue. The males although slightly smaller than the females (can grow to over 40 cm in length) have the larger head and during the breeding season can be very aggressive to other males.

These lizards are usually solitary, but do not avoid others and often meet up during the year. However, they sort themselves into couples at the approach of the mating season (September to November). Initially they just go about together, but closer to the time of mating, the male follows the female around for a couple of weeks and lookout any unattached male in their vicinity, as they are chased off very smartly, however other roving couples are not met with the same aggression. This may be because they only have one partner per season, although the same pair may get together for several years. One couple has been recorded in a ten year relationship, the longest known for any reptile. From two to six young are born live, five months after mating and are independent from birth, although strangely, close family members can apparently recognise each other even after long separation.

Stumpy-tailed Lizards can live without water for extended periods, but appreciate a drink when available.

Despite their large size and somewhat clumsy appearance, they can be a very attractive lizard, with large soft eyes that can wink at you with their moveable lower eye-lid.

They are often found within low flowering plants, no doubt sampling the produce.

Predation from native species are largely restricted to juvenile animals and tend to be from birds like kookaburras, birds of prey and large snakes. However most are preyed upon, or simply killed by cats, foxes and dogs, plus a heavy toll is taken on the roads as they slowly cross or sun-bake.

From the perspective of the lizard's prey, at this level they can look like a very big snake.

And from the prey's last look.

Stumpy-tail Lizard, Tiliqua rugosa