Thorny devil hatchlings make their debut at the Alice Springs Desert Park
Alice Springs Desert Park celebrates the hatching of two baby Thorny Devils, now on display in the Nocturnal House. These fascinating creatures, born after a three-month incubation, have a unique ability to obtain water. Visit to see them up close and learn more about this remarkable species.
The Alice Springs Desert Park is thrilled to announce the hatching of two baby Thorny Devils (Moloch horridus), marking an exciting start to the year. These fascinating creatures are now on display at the Desert Park’s Nocturnal House, offering visitors a chance to see them up close.
Thorny Devils breed once a year, laying eight to nine eggs in a sandy burrow around 30cm deep. The eggs incubate for three to four months, depending on the temperature, before the hatchlings emerge. After absorbing their yolk sac, the young Thorny Devils are ready to begin their diet of ants. Their spiny bodies and dark coloration provide excellent camouflage during their early stages of life, and they will gradually change colour as they grow.
Staying hydrated is vital for these remarkable reptiles, and they have a unique way of doing so: through capillary action, which allows them to transport water across the skin to their mouth.
The Thorny Devil hatchlings are now on display in the Nocturnal House, and visitors are encouraged to stop by and catch a glimpse of these incredible creatures. To learn more about Thorny Devils, or to plan your visit, head to the Alice Springs Desert Park website.
