Photo of the week – Jacky Lizard near Penola

Lizards being cold blooded, bask in the morning sun to raise their internal body temperature and stimulate their metabolism. They position their body to soak up maximum sunlight, spreading themselves to create more surface area. As their internal temperature warms up, their muscles become limber, which is crucial for hunting and escaping predators. This Jacky Lizard (Amphibolurus muricatus) is sunning itself, before going off  to find breakfast.

This photo was taken recently near Penola during an orchid survey.

Photo and words by Sheryl Holliday