Common Five-lined skink
Plestiodon fasciatus
Conservation Status:
Photographed by Matt Jersey
Description
Five-lined skinks are two to nine inches long. Males are brown, with a red head during breeding season. Females are a dark gray with five stripes down the back. Juveniles are more brightly colored, being black with yellow lines and a blue tail. This coloring on the tail fades away with age, sometimes as well as the stripes. Females however are more likely to retain these traits their whole lives.
Habitat
This species can be found in or near forests, rocky slopes, and near permanent water sources. They prefer moist hardwood areas, with lots of rock piles and logs.
Behavior
Five-lined skinks can often be seen basking in the sun during the day. Males are highly territorial, acting
aggressively on others that trespass. They mostly eat insects, arthropods, mice, and amphibians. Some of this skink’s predators are birds, large snakes, and skunks. When threatened, they will generally flee and hide under debris, however they may also detach their tails or bite the attacker. The breeding season is May to July, and 4 to 18 eggs are laid under logs. The mother will guard her eggs for a few days.
Range
Present
