Tiliqua rugosa rugosa

Also known as Bobtail Lizard, Two-headed Skink, Stump-tailed Skink, Pinecone Lizard

Renowned for extraordinary fidelity, adult shingleback skinks form monogamous partnerships that frequently endure for more than twenty years, reuniting each spring to court and mate. Their heavily armored, pinecone-like scales and thick, stumpy tail create a two-headed illusion that baffles predators. When threatened, they flatten their bodies, hiss loudly, and present a gaping pink mouth contrasted with a vivid blue tongue to deter attackers.