Moloch horridus, commonly known as the thorny devil, is a small, spiny lizard native to the arid deserts of Australia. Its distinct features include a body covered in conical spines and a false head on its neck to confuse predators. It feeds primarily on ants, employing a specialized tongue to capture them.

Moloch horridus, commonly known as the thorny devil, is native to Australia. Its distribution spans across the arid and semi-arid regions of the continent, primarily in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, South Australia, and Queensland.

The thorny devil inhabits deserts and scrublands characterized by sandy soils and sparse vegetation. These regions are typically dry, with low annual rainfall and extreme temperature variations between day and night.

Moloch horridus is a ground-dwelling reptile that has adapted to survive in harsh desert conditions. It relies on camouflage for protection and feeds primarily on ants, consuming thousands in a single meal. Its unique spiny skin helps with moisture absorption, allowing it to thrive in arid environments.