[5] C. fordi displays a dark reddish-orange colouration with a pale dorso-lateral stripe extending from the posterior region of the neck to the anterior portion of the tail.

[8] In addition to these primary habitats, the Mallee military dragon can sometimes be found in open sandy areas adjacent to these woodlands, where they utilise the loose soil for burrowing.

[9] The presence of various shrubs and grasses in these areas contributes to a diverse diet and a complex habitat structure, essential for the dragon's lifecycle.

[10] Mallee military dragons (Ctenophorus fordi) emerge from dormancy in August, with males appearing about four weeks earlier than females.

[11] They are active even on very hot days, foraging in sandy, open areas and dashing for cover into nearby grasses or low bushes if disturbed or pursued.

[13] A study by Gibbons and Lillywhite (1981) found that head bobbing is used for species recognition, sex identification, and signaling dominance status in Mallee dragons.

[17] In addition to ants, the Mallee dragon's diet includes a variety of other small invertebrates found in its habitat, such as spiders, beetles, and other insects.

[19] The specialized tricuspid teeth of C. fordi are adapted for an insectivorous diet, allowing it to efficiently capture and consume ants and other small prey.