
Coral rag skink
A species of Fence skinks Scientific name : Cryptoblepharus africanus Genus : Fence skinks
Coral rag skink, A species of Fence skinks
Scientific name: Cryptoblepharus africanus
Genus: Fence skinks
Content
Description General Info


Description

Coral rag skink is noteworthy for its adaptability, surviving in a vast array of habitats from urban spaces to natural forests, demonstrating resilience and flexibility. Intriguingly, this species is viviparous, an uncommon trait among reptiles, thus gestating embryos within the mother instead of laying external eggs, a potential survival advantage in fluctuating environments.

General Info

Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Coral rag skink is an insectivorous species, primarily feeding on arthropods. Its diet typically includes small invertebrates such as spiders and insects, particularly beetles and ants.
Appearance
Coral rag skink is a small skink exhibiting a streamlined, cylindrical body shape with smooth, scaly skin. Its coloration ranges from olive to brown, sometimes featuring distinct dark longitudinal streaks. Notable features include narrow, elongated toes and a long, tapering tail. Males typically display bolder colors than females. No significant age-related or subspecies-dependent cosmetic differences are documented.
Behavior
Coral rag skink are solitary, ground-dwelling reptiles that exhibit diurnal behavior, actively foraging for insects during daylight. They are territorial and mark their areas with scent trails. Notably, their coloration adapts inconspicuously to their sandy surroundings, a survival tactic in their natural desert habitats.

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Fence skinks Species
Coral rag skink