Thorny Devil

reptile · Australia · camouflage

Covered in spikes. The thorny devil's entire body is covered in sharp thorns and bumpy scales that make it look like a tiny dragon. These spikes are not for fighting but for protection and to help the lizard blend in with the rocky desert ground.

Ant specialist. This lizard eats only ants, and a single thorny devil can gobble up hundreds or even thousands of ants in one day. Its sticky tongue flicks in and out to catch the ants one by one.

Only in Australia. Thorny devils live only in the deserts and dry regions of Australia, where they hide among rocks and spin around slowly to avoid being spotted. They are found nowhere else in the wild in the entire world.

Small and shy. These lizards are quite tiny, growing to only about 8 inches long, and they move very slowly and deliberately. Despite their fierce appearance, they are completely harmless and just want to be left alone.

Drinks through skin. The thorny devil has special grooves between its scales that collect dewdrops and rainwater, and the water runs along these channels straight to its mouth. This clever system helps it survive in very dry desert areas.