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Bobtail Skink

Tiliqua rugosa rugosa

Photo by AmazingAmma
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

"Bobtails" as they are commonly known are actually a skink, not a goanna. Their population in the Perth hills area was decimated a few years ago with the onset of a nasty virus, in addition to their usual predators (including introduced species like cats and dogs). Unlike many of their kin, bobtails give birth to live young (no egg!).

Notes:

We have been lucky enough to have breeding pairs on our property for the last 8 years. This year, we had the very great pleasure of seeing a baby. These shots were taken late last year, but I just saw one sunning itself in the garden a few minutes ago. The last shot is of the bobtail I just saw today.

05/10/2011 - Another adult (second from last image) and a baby sighted (last image) today :)

Reference Links:

Tiliqua rugosa, Bobtail Goanna

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (4)
AmazingAmma
Thank you! Actually I just saw a baby wandering along my verandah yesterday. I must see if I can find it and take a few shots. It's heartening to see them breeding on the property!
textless
What an odd little animal. Very interesting, and great photos. Thanks!
AmazingAmma
Thanks Lori. I think you're right. I've only ever heard them referred to as bobtail goannas here in WA. Though usually they're just called bobtails.
lori.tas
Interesting, I've never heard them called a goanna before. Must be a local thing. Great shot of the open mouth.

Spotted for Missions

Mission
WILD Cities: Urban Biodiversity
Photographed
PublishedAugust 10, 2011

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