The Big Bob-tail Lizard
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
Port Lincoln, SA 5606
The Lowdown
The Big Bob-tail Lizard basks in Port Lincoln, at the southern tip of South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, celebrating one of Australia's most beloved native reptiles. Bobtails, also known as shinglebacks, bluetongues, and sleepy lizards, are a common sight across southern Australia, waddling slowly through gardens, parks, and bushland. These docile lizards are famous for their stumpy blue tongues, which they flash at predators, and their lifelong pair bonds - bobtails mate for life and reunite each breeding season. The Big Bob-tail Lizard celebrates this uniquely Australian creature that has adapted to thrive alongside humans.
Did you know?
"Bobtails mate for life and can live for over 20 years"
History
Bobtail lizards have lived in Australia for millions of years and have become one of the most recognized native reptiles. Their stumpy tails resemble their heads, confusing predators about which end to attack. When threatened, they open their mouths wide to display their bright blue tongue, a startling defence mechanism. Port Lincoln, on the Eyre Peninsula, is prime bobtail territory, with the lizards commonly seen in gardens and bushland. The Big Bob-tail Lizard celebrates this friendly reptile that has become a beloved part of Australian suburban wildlife.
More Fun Facts
- •Bobtails mate for life and can live for over 20 years
- •They flash their blue tongue to startle predators
- •Their tail stores fat reserves for lean times
- •Bobtails are immune to many snake venoms
- •They give birth to live young, usually twins
Visiting Tips
- 💡Port Lincoln is famous for cage diving with great white sharks
- 💡Watch for real bobtails on roads - they move slowly
- 💡The Eyre Peninsula has excellent seafood restaurants
- 💡Combine with a visit to Coffin Bay National Park
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
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