WHADJUK - BOYA NGURA SHADOW ARBOUR - Yoorn - Bobtail Goanna
Tiliqua rugosa is a short-tailed, slow-moving species of blue-tongued skink found in Australia. Three of the four recognised subspecies are found only in Western Australia, where they are known collectively by the common name bobtail.
T. rugosa has a heavily armoured body and can be found in various colours, ranging from dark brown to cream. It has a short, wide, stumpy tail that resembles its head and may confuse predators. The tail also contains fat reserves, which are drawn upon during brumation (hibernation for cold-blooded animals) in winter. This skink is an omnivore; it eats snails and plants and spends much of its time browsing through vegetation for food. It is often seen sunning on roadsides or other paved areas.
The goanna lizards are traditionally cooked whole on hot coals, and their white meat is known for its oily texture and chicken-like taste.
The fat was also used as moisturising for dry skin.