The thorny devil is a small, spiky lizard of Australia’s deserts. Its extraordinary adaptations for collecting water and avoiding predators make it one of the most unusual reptiles in the world.
Interesting facts
- Its body is covered in sharp, cone-shaped spines.
- A knob on the back of its neck acts as a ‘false head’ to fool predators.
- It eats almost nothing but ants.
- It changes colour depending on temperature and mood.
- It walks with a slow, jerky gait, like a leaf blowing in the wind.
- Despite its fierce appearance, it is harmless.
Behaviour
Thorny devils are active by day. They sit beside ant trails, flicking up ants one at a time with their tongues.
Breeding and young
Females lay about 3–10 eggs in a burrow in spring or summer.
Threats and conservation
The species is not threatened, although many are killed on roads.
Where to see it
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
- Kalbarri National Park, Western Australia
- Alice Springs Desert Park
- Desert roads in central Australia (watch out for them)
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
