How does the African armadillo lizard defend itself?

The African armadillo lizard (Cordylus cataphractus) is a lizard that employs a unique defensive posture when threatened. It rolls onto its back and grasps its tail in its mouth, effectively forming a ball.12

In this position, the lizard presents a completely spiny exterior to potential attackers. Because it lacks an accessible starting point for a predator to begin swallowing, many animals—such as snakes—are unable to consume it. The lizard remains in this protected, ball-like state, shielded by its hard, bony scales and spines, until the danger has passed.21