What Is the Difference Between Male & Female Frilled Lizards?

There are not many differences between a male and female frilled lizard (also called a frilled dragon or frill-necked lizard.) Juveniles are very difficult to sex, but when the lizard reaches maturity at 20 months, the differences are easier to spot.

  1. Frill

    • Both male and female frilled lizards have the characteristic skin flaps that, when raised, look like a frill. In comparison, males have larger and more vividly colored yellow, orange or white frills than females.

    Size

    • Males grow to be 27 to 37 inches (70 to 95 cm) long while females often grow smaller. Males weigh two pounds (900 grams) while females only weigh one pound (450 grams), according to the Denver Zoo.

    Head Shape

    • Male frilled lizards tend to have longer and more slender heads than females. The teeth are usually longer than a female's.

    Aggression

    • Both males and females will fight each other when it is not mating season, but males usually initiate attacks, especially with other males. Each frilled lizard should be housed separately, according to Petco.

    As Pets

    • Female frilled lizards are usually more timid than males, according to Sundial Reptiles. The males are more willing to be handled or to at least come out of hiding to look at people.