Five-lined skink
A species of Skinks, Also known as Blue-tailed skink, Common Five-lined Skink Scientific name : Plestiodon fasciatus Genus : Skinks
Five-lined skink, A species of Skinks
Also known as:
Blue-tailed skink, Common Five-lined Skink
Scientific name: Plestiodon fasciatus
Genus: Skinks
Content
Description General Info
Photo By lauramorganclark , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The (American) five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus) is a species of lizard endemic to North America. It is one of the most common lizards in the eastern U.S. and one of the seven native species of lizards in Canada.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Five-lined skink primarily consumes a variety of invertebrates, with a significant preference for spiders and insects such as beetles and caterpillars. Seasonal availability often dictates its diet, leading to diverse feeding habits.
Appearance
Five-lined skink is a small to medium-sized skink, averaging 13 to 24 cm in length. Its cylindrical body, robust limbs, and long, tapered tail are covered in smooth, shiny scales. Typically, the body displays five broad, dark stripes on a brown to tan background. Juveniles exhibit brighter colors, with an iridescent blue tail. This color fades and stripes become less apparent as the animal matures into adulthood.
Behavior
Five-lined skink is primarily diurnal and terrestrial, foraging for invertebrates in leaf litter. This skink demonstrates solitary behavior, only interacting for mating. When threatened, five-lined skink disconnects its tail, which continues to move and distracts predators. It uses a generalist strategy to adapt to various habitats, which include forests and suburban areas.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Skinks Species
Five-lined skink 
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