Which Australian lizard channels rainwater to its mouth through skin grooves?

The thorny devil is the Australian lizard that channels rainwater to its mouth through grooves in its skin. Capillary action carries moisture along tiny channels between its overlapping scales, allowing the desert reptile to drink from wet surfaces.

Thorny devils are covered in sharp spines that help discourage predators. Their colours can change with conditions and range from browns and greys to yellowish or reddish tones. They are found in arid and semi-arid regions of central and western Australia.

The species feeds almost entirely on ants, especially small, common species encountered during foraging. A thorny devil may consume thousands of ants in a day. Its sticky tongue and specialised feeding behaviour help it collect prey efficiently.

The lizard also has a false head on the back of its neck. When threatened, it lowers its real head and presents the spiny structure, potentially confusing a predator. Despite its fierce appearance, it is not venomous.