Heartbreak in the Bush: Why Bobtail Lovers Should Stay Together
- Chloe Willows
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
They say love is forever, and for bobtail lizards, that’s not just a romantic notion—it’s a way of life. These slow-moving, sun-loving reptiles form monogamous pairs, staying together year after year. But well-meaning humans are unknowingly playing homewrecker, separating bonded bobtails and leaving them to face the wild alone.
The Tragic Truth About Bobtail Bonds
Bobtails (also known as shinglebacks) are among the few reptiles that form long-term pairings. Come breeding season, males track their partners over vast distances, staying close and even nudging them affectionately. When one bobtail is removed from an area—whether picked up off the road, relocated, or taken to “rescue” centres unnecessarily—the other remains, waiting for a mate who will never return.
Disrupting these bonds can leave them vulnerable. A single bobtail has a tougher time foraging, finding shelter, and avoiding predators. Stress weakens their immune system, making them more susceptible to disease, particularly to the deadly bobtail flu that’s already hitting local populations hard.
When Should You Step In?
While it’s tempting to “help” a lone bobtail, most of the time, they don’t need rescuing. Here’s when you shouldn’t intervene:
• It’s just sitting there. Bobtails are notoriously lazy sunbathers. They’re not stuck, sick, or lost—they’re just vibing.
• It’s in a park or bushland. This is exactly where they belong.
• It has a mate nearby. If you see two together, leave them be. Separating them can be devastating.
However, if a bobtail is clearly injured, covered in flies, or sitting in the middle of a busy road, then it’s time to help. In those cases, move it to a safe spot nearby (not kilometres away), or call a licensed wildlife carer.
Helping Bobtails Safely Cross Roads
If you spot a bobtail basking or crossing the road, it’s important to move them correctly to prevent them from returning to danger. Always place them on the side of the road they were heading toward—never back where they came from, or they will instinctively attempt to cross again. Use both hands to gently but firmly pick them up from the middle of their body, keeping them low to the ground to prevent injury if they wriggle. Avoid grabbing their tail, as they may struggle or drop it as a defense mechanism.
Handling Ticks on Bobtails
Bobtails are often found with ticks, and while it may be tempting to remove them, doing so incorrectly can leave the tick’s head embedded, leading to infection. If you’re concerned about a bobtail’s health, the safest option is to contact a wildlife carer or reptile expert who can remove ticks properly. If in doubt call Mandurah Wildlife on 08 9582 3938. If you must remove a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull it out slowly and steadily without twisting.
Breaking Up Bobtails is Breaking the Bush
Bobtails play a vital role in our ecosystem. They control insect populations, disperse seeds, and help maintain healthy soil. When humans interfere, even with good intentions, it disrupts the delicate balance of the environment.
So, next time you see a bobtail in the wild, resist the urge to relocate it. Instead, appreciate the love story unfolding before you. Because in the world of bobtails, a forced separation isn’t just a breakup—it’s a tragedy.
Help these Aussie icons today!
