The Jacky Lizard, or Tree Dragon, is a member of the Dragon family of lizards. It is found in rocky areas and coastal heathlands extending from South Australia to south-eastern Queensland. Although well camouflaged, it can be seen in low vegetation or when warming itself in the sun, especially on sandy tracks. It is distinguished by its tail, which is twice as long as its body.
It feeds on insects found under bark. Females breed each summer and lay up to nine eggs. The sex of the Jacky Lizard is partly determined by the temperature of the nest. Cooler and warmer nests produce more female lizards, while moderate temperature nests are likely to produce more male lizards.
Size: 100mm, tail 200mm
Illustration and photos: Mark Trinham