Hong kong skink
A species of Skinks, Also known as Four-striped skink Scientific name : Plestiodon quadrilineatus Genus : Skinks
Hong kong skink, A species of Skinks
Also known as:
Four-striped skink
Scientific name: Plestiodon quadrilineatus
Genus: Skinks
Content
Description General Info
Photo By portioid , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Hong kong skink, the Four-striped Blue-tail Skink, displays a remarkable tail autotomy mechanism — it detaches its tail as a distraction or survival strategy when under threat. This reptile is insectivorous and plays an integral role in controlling insect populations within its native habitats in East Asia. Adapted for a diurnal lifestyle, it exhibits robust foraging behavior throughout the day.
General Info
Lifespan
2-8 years
Diet
Hong kong skink is primarily a carnivorous species, known for its preference for small invertebrates such as various insects, spiders, and gastropods. It also consumes soft fruits occasionally, adding variety to its diet.
Appearance
Hong kong skink is a medium-sized lizard with a cylindrical body. Its skin is rough with clearly visible scales. It possesses a distinctive blue tail, with the rest of its body primarily brown or black featuring bright yellow or white stripes running from head to tail. Males tend to be larger than females. Young hong kong skink have a more vibrant coloration compared to adults.
Behavior
Hong kong skink is a diurnal and solitary species, largely active in daylight hours, exhibiting basking behavior for thermoregulation. Notably territorial, it uses chemical cues to mark its boundaries and acts aggressively to infringements. Their survival strategy includes swift burrowing to escape predators and for nesting. Adapted to forest habitats, hong kong skink features prominent foraging behavior, hunting small invertebrates using its acute senses.
Population
Stable
Photo By portioid , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Skinks Species
Hong kong skink