Common skink
A species of Oligosoma, Also known as Common new zealand skink Scientific name : Oligosoma polychroma Genus : Oligosoma
Common skink, A species of Oligosoma
Also known as:
Common new zealand skink
Scientific name: Oligosoma polychroma
Genus: Oligosoma
Content
Description General Info
Photo By christopherstephens , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The common skink, Oligosoma polychroma, is a species of skink native to New Zealand. Although historically classified as a subspecies of Oligosoma nigriplantare, it is likely to be given separate species status as data suggests it is a distinct species.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Common skink is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of invertebrates. Its diet mainly includes spiders, beetles, and larvae, with a preference for soft-bodied insects, indicating opportunistic foraging behavior.
Appearance
Common skink is a small skink with a streamlined body, tapering tail, and smooth, shiny scales. Displaying a greenish-brown to grey coloration, it often consists of irregular dark patches along its back and sides. Age or gender differences are subtle but males generally tend to have a more robust body and differentiated pattern, especially during mating season.
Behavior
Common skink is a diurnal species mostly active during the day, exhibiting robust insectivorous foraging behavior. With a propensity towards solitary living, they have a unique skink tail flicking habit when threatened. Common skink does not come with defined territorial behavior but uses natural refuges for protection and mating, adapting well to the craggy terrains of their habitat.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Oligosoma Species
Common skink 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
