Southern coal skink
A species of Skinks, Also known as Coal skink Scientific name : Plestiodon anthracinus Genus : Skinks
Southern coal skink, A species of Skinks
Also known as:
Coal skink
Scientific name: Plestiodon anthracinus
Genus: Skinks
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Peter Paplanus , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Plestiodon anthracinus, the coal skink, is a species of lizard which is endemic to North America.
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
Southern coal skink keenly relishes a diverse diet comprising primarily of insects. Significant contributions include beetles, spiders, and roaches. However, its nocturnal feeding habits aid in ambushing a variety of moths and other night-active insects.
Appearance
Southern coal skink is a medium-sized skink characterized by a streamlined body and smooth, shiny scales. Adults exhibit a variable coloration, typically black or dark grey, sometimes displaying blue tails. Juveniles have five light stripes on a darker background, extending into blue tails. No significant differences in appearance exist between genders or different age groups. Their prominent features include slender bodies, short limbs, and distinctive conical snouts.
Behavior
Southern coal skink is primarily solitary and exceptionally secretive, preferring to spend most of its time concealed under objects or within vegetation. As nocturnal animals, its primary activity and foraging occur during night hours. Its distinct black and blue color pattern provides effective camouflage within its forested habitat.
Population
Stable
Photo By Peter Paplanus , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Skinks Species
Southern coal skink