The Shingleback Lizard ranges across the southern half of Australia, except for the eastern and south-eastern coastal areas.

It is a large (310 mm in length), long bodied, short tailed skink with a very big head. Its upper surface is covered with enlarged, rough, pine cone like scales. The upper surface is pale to dark reddish or yellowish brown, with paler markings. The short tail, which is used to store fat, has a rounded, blunt end.

Shinglebacks defend themselves by opening their mouths to show their blue tongues. They move slowly across the ground during the day, eating insects, snails, vegetation and carrion. They shelter under timber or ground letter in cold weather.

A pair may stay together for long periods. They mate in spring and 2 or 3 large young are born in summer.