Recently described cestode parasite of Moloch , named Oochoristica piankai . Thermoregulation Thorny devils are heliotherms, relying on solar energy to raise their body temperatures above ambient temperatures. Body temperature varies directly with air temperature. Size, Growth and Age Adult female thorny devils are larger and stouter than adult males. There is no noticeable size difference between hatchling males and females.
Thorny devils continue to grow until at least their fifth year.
Sporn kept some captives for up to 8 years and considered it highly likely that thorny devils live up to 20 years in nature. Someone should undertake a detailed long-term mark and recapture study of these interesting lizards. Seasonal Activity and Reproduction Thorny devils display a bimodal seasonal pattern of activity. During hot summer days, thorny devils retreat into shallow underground burrows dug by themselves. Thorny devils are sedentary during summer and autumn, with an individual's movements generally being restricted to an area about 20-30 feet on a side.