Red-barred Dragon
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Ctenophorus vadnappa or the Red-barred Dragon
This ornate little dragon from the Flinders Ranges in South Australia is one of the most distinctly marked small dragon species. They are found on and around rocky outcrops surrounded by low shrubby growth. The red-barred dragon basks on the rocks by day, and seeks shelter in rock crevices for sleep and safety at night time. The species name, 'vadnappa', comes from the Aboriginal name for this species, which means 'painted lizard'.
Like many lizard species, the male Red-barred Dragon gains more colour at maturity than the female. Males will display to females and other males by raising their tails, pushing up with their hind bodies, and bobbing their heads. The female red-barred dragon can lay 3 clutches of eggs in a good season, for example when there is abundant food. Each clutch will contain between 2 and 5 eggs. The red-barred dragon grows to a maximum length of about 28 cm.
Did you know...
- This ornate little dragon from the Flinders Ranges in South Australia is one of the most distinctly marked small dragon species.
- The Red-barred Dragon can be found on and around rocky outcrops surrounded by low shrubby growth. The red-barred dragon basks on the rocks by day, and seeks shelter in rock crevices for sleep and safety at night time.
- The species name, vadnappa, comes from the Aboriginal name for this species, which means 'painted lizard'.
- Males will display to females and other males by raising their tails, pushing up with their hind bodies and bobbing their heads.
Where to find Red-barred Dragons in Australia:
