The name 'Sleepy' is the term used in eastern Australia for this large and beautiful skink, also known as the Shingleback or Bobtail Lizard (Tiliqua rugosa). It has characteristic large scales, a triangular shaped-head and a short stumpy tail. During the last few days I've seen quite a number on the move, a key sign that the weather is warming up and they are no longer feeling 'sleepy'. On thing I've noticed is the variation in colours in this widespread species - the above animal is almost plain dark brown and grey, but another one we saw a few days later (below) was a much deeper chocolate colour and its body was covered with fine yellow specks. It's always good to take notice of the more common Australian animals and appreciate how beautiful they are, even though some of us might see them regularly.
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