Its primary food sources consist of both vegetation and invertebrates, and it prefers to live in rocky habitats.

C. decresii is a member of the genus Ctenophorus, which is a very diverse group of lizards found throughout Australia.

[4] The entire genus of lizards is sexually dimorphic, in which males and females exhibit different characteristics.

Variations of colour in these lizards were previously attributed to different levels in sexual maturity.

[6] From this, it can be concluded that throat colour in these lizards is polymorphic, specifically in determining whether the phenotype is yellow or orange.

Polymorphism and environmental factors play major roles in colour expression, but it is impossible to say which one is more significant without genomic analysis and linkage mapping.

[8] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used on the tawny dragon lizards to examine their brains.

By having the neuroanatomy of lizards, scientists are able to see how behaviour and cognitive function are related to structures of the brain.

[10] Some of the variants include multi-coloured, grey, yellow, orange, blue, and red-throated lizards.

[12] The tests analyzed variation based on granularity, segmentation, and comparison with visual background.

[13] Based on the conflicting benefits of dull and bright-coloured throats, it is understandable that both morphs have been maintained in this species.

[15] Scientists have identified the different populations of lizards as separate lineages due to geographic isolation.

[15] In New South Wales, they are found in the far west of the state, in the Barrier Ranges, near Silverton,[4] among other locations.

The entire genus Ctenophorus maintains a generally constant body shape, adapted for the Australian climate.

[15] C. decresii are characterized by their ability to produce multiple clutches in a year but a short lifespan.

These individuals will also have a higher probability of reproductive success especially in terms of clutch size and offspring body mass.

Eggs laid closer to the beginning of the season have more time to develop thus giving them more of an opportunity to gain more body mass.

[17] As mentioned in the description section, the colouration of the male tawny dragon lizards can vary, especially by region (northern and southern).

To distinguish between individuals, the lizards use physical characteristics as opposed to chemical or behavioural cues.

[21] A higher level of aggression is also associated greater number of encounters with other lizards, specifically those where they are the initiator of the fight.

This also means these males reside in territories that are rich with resources that must be defended in order for them to maintain their dominance.

[19] The effects of climate change, specifically rising temperatures, have caused significant declines in many species, and the tawny dragon lizard is not an exception.

The combination of high temperatures and decreased rainfall has had a severe impact on the not only survival of these lizards but also fecundity and growth rate.

Constant grazing from animals like sheep, cattle, and feral goats reduce the areas where the lizards can hide and live.

As expected, individuals with more brightly coloured bodies are at a higher risk of predation, because they are more easily spotted.

Dorsal and lateral colouration are vital in ensuring individuals in either region are not as susceptible to predators.