Where “Blue-tongue” Comes From
Blue-tongue lizards are a group of large skinks with a stocky body, small legs and a bright blue tongue. They stick out the tongue and hiss to look dangerous and scare predators.
They eat snails, insects and fruit, which makes them useful in the garden. They’re common in Australian suburbs and bushland.
“There’s a blue-tongue in the garden.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in gardens, at school and in pet stories.
In Real Life
Many Australian children have a story about the blue-tongue that lives under the shed. These lizards are slow and gentle and are protected wildlife, so you shouldn’t take them from the wild. People often leave a shallow water dish and a hiding spot for them. Mistaking one for a snake is common because of its hiss and flat shape, but it’s harmless.
Quick Questions
Are blue-tongues dangerous?
No. They’re harmless, though they may bite if frightened.
Why do they stick out their tongues?
To scare away predators with a sudden flash of blue.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: BLOO-tung.
In conversation:
- A blue-tongue lives under our shed.
- The blue-tongue hissed at the dog.
- Blue-tongues eat snails.
Good to know: Blue-tongues aren’t venomous and help control garden pests like snails. Never pick them up by the tail, and keep pets away.
See also: Goanna
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