
Samoa skink
A species of Emoias Scientific name : Emoia samoensis Genus : Emoias
Samoa skink, A species of Emoias
Scientific name: Emoia samoensis
Genus: Emoias
Content
Description General Info

Description

The Samoa skink (Emoia samoensis) is a species of lizard in the family Scincidae. It is found in the Samoan Islands and Cook Island.

General Info

Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Samoa skink feeds predominantly on small invertebrates, with a marked preference for arachnids and insects. Its diet is supplemented by a variety of plant materials, including seeds and fruits.
Appearance
Samoa skink is a slim, medium-sized skink with smooth, glossy skin. The underparts are pearl-grey, smoothly transitioning to a metallic bronze back and a tinge of blue on the sides. A dark brown stripe extends from its snout to tail. The females frequently exhibit lighter colors than the males, which are usually darker and more vibrant, especially during the breeding season. Its long body ends in a cone-shaped tail.
Behavior
Samoa skink is a diurnal, primarily terrestrial skink. Its survival is greatly influenced by its adaptation to forage in leaf litter and under decaying logs for invertebrates. A solitary species, samoa skink's territorial behavior against intruders has been noted. Unique among skinks, samoa skink exhibits cryptic behavior to avoid predators, remaining motionless when threatened, effectively blending it into its environment.
Population
Decreasing

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Emoias Species
Samoa skink