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 
 Scientific Classification
 Phylum 
  Chordates   Class 
  Reptiles   Order 
  Lizards and snakes   Family 
  Skinks   Genus 
  Skinks   Species 
  Southern coal skink