De Kraag-Hagedis van Nieuw-Holland. (Chlamydosaurus Kingii.)

Title

De Kraag-Hagedis van Nieuw-Holland. (Chlamydosaurus Kingii.)

Description

Illustration of a ruffed lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) in Australia. The ruffed lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) is native to Australia and New Guinea. It is known for its ability to erect a large ruff like an umbrella. This "collar" is formed by a large membrane of skin, which is supported by cartilaginous rods. The sudden stretching of the collar by contraction of muscles attached to the cartilaginous rods makes the lizard appear larger and scares off enemies. The collared lizard is a diurnal tree dweller and feeds on insects. It can move very quickly on the ground, running upright on its hind legs.

c. 1841

Artist

Anonymus

Historical Description

The true lizards are a family of reptiles within the pangolin family. Their representatives are found in Europe, Africa and Asia as well as on offshore islands and prefer sunny, predominantly dry habitats. They usually feed on small invertebrates, occasionally also on seeds and fruits. True lizards are found in Europe, Africa and from the Near East to Southeast Asia. They have not reached Australia and are also not found on the two American continents. Most species are small, slender, agile, ground-dwelling animals. The tail can be shed at predetermined breaking points and later regenerated.