Legless lizards are not found in Tasmania. Tasmanian skinks are diurnal lizards, ranging in size from the Delicate skink through to the Blotched Bluetongue. Skinks generally have glossy scales, each containing a small bone or osteoderm, and enlarged head shields. Most species occurring in Tasmania give birth to live young. Other more famous members of the dragon family living in Australia include the Frilled Lizard of northern Australia and the Thorny Devil of the sandy deserts.
Dragons tend to have long hind limbs, small, coarse scales and large heads.
All dragons lay eggs and they are most numerous in the warmer parts of Australia. The Tasmanian reptile fauna may not be particularly diverse but it is certainly fascinating nonetheless. Tasmania's relatively cool climate and high mountain ranges provide challenges for reptiles. Reptiles need to raise their body temperature by basking or by absorbing warmth from rocks which have been heated by the sun. Most species only become active when the air temperature is well above 15 degrees Celcius.