From icon to afterthought? Evidence for a potential regional decline in the frilled lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) in south-east Queensland

The frilled lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) reaches its southern distributional limit in south-east Queensland (SEQ), where its status remains poorly documented. We integrated occurrence records, iNaturalist data, targeted field surveys, and habitat-loss analyses to assess its regional status. Standardised iNaturalist observation rates declined 3.4-fold in SEQ between 2008 and 2023, and occurrence records and field surveys revealed substantial spatial variation in the species’ continued occurrence across the region. Major vegetation types associated with the species have undergone substantial habitat loss. Together, these patterns are consistent with a possible regional decline and highlight the need for systematic population monitoring and habitat protection.