One of the most spectacular animals of northern Australia is the ankarta or frill-necked lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingi). When the lizard is startled or threatened it raises its body, often standing and running on its hind legs; the frills are extended when it opens its mouth wide. This is a warning to a potential enemy, though the lizard will also run towards an aggressor on its hind legs and attack if threatened. The frills of these lizards are large and in an assortment of earthy colours; here the potter has used more vibrant colours to ensure the animal is as colourful as the Arrernte landscape.