Ctenophorus fionni facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ctenophorus fionni |
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| A peninsula dragon in captivity | |
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Ctenophorus
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fionni
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The peninsula dragon, also known as the Arcoona rock dragon, is a special type of lizard. Its scientific name is Ctenophorus fionni. This lizard is only found in South Australia. It belongs to a family of lizards called agamids.
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What's in a Name?
The second part of the lizard's scientific name, fionni, is a mystery. It was chosen to honor someone named "Fionn". However, the scientist who named it, Joan Beauchamp Procter, never told anyone who Fionn was.
What Does the Peninsula Dragon Look Like?
Adult peninsula dragons are quite small. They grow to be about 10 to 12 centimeters (4 to 5 inches) long. This measurement includes their tail.
Female dragons are usually brown or reddish-brown. They often have dark spots all over their bodies. Male dragons look a bit different. They tend to have grey backs and brown heads. Their bodies are covered in many white, cream, and yellow-orange spots.
The colors and patterns of male dragons can change a lot. This depends on where they live. Different groups of dragons in separate areas can have their own unique looks.
Where Do Peninsula Dragons Live and What Do They Do?
The peninsula dragon lives in rocky areas. You can find them in a place called Arcoona in South Australia. They love to warm up by sitting on rocks in the sun. When they need to hide, they quickly go into cracks in the rocks.
These lizards are very fast and quick. If they feel in danger, they will dart into a safe spot between rocks. Peninsula dragons also talk to each other. They use their body positions, movements, and colors to communicate. This is especially common when they are looking for a mate.
How Do Peninsula Dragons Have Babies?
The breeding season for the peninsula dragon starts in spring. This is when the weather begins to get warmer. Male dragons become very active during this time. They show off their strength and sometimes fight to get a female's attention.
Female dragons can lay up to six eggs at a time. They usually lay their eggs during spring and summer. The exact time depends on where they live and the weather conditions.
What Do Peninsula Dragons Eat?
The peninsula dragon is an omnivore. This means it eats both plants and animals. Its diet mostly includes insects. About 70% of what they eat is insects. The other 30% comes from different types of plants.
What Dangers Do Peninsula Dragons Face?
Peninsula dragons face several threats in their natural home. Their habitat, or the place where they live, is sometimes destroyed. Roads built for cars can also be dangerous for them. Lastly, new animal species brought into their area can also cause problems for them.
