Eastern sand skink
A species of Afro-malagasy mabuyas Scientific name : Trachylepis depressa Genus : Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Eastern sand skink, A species of Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Scientific name: Trachylepis depressa
Genus: Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Content
Description General Info
Description
The eastern sand skink (Trachylepis depressa) is a species of skink found in South Africa.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Eastern sand skink follows an omnivorous diet, majorly feeding on insects, especially ants and beetles. Frequently, it also consumes a variety of plant matter, including fruits and leaves.
Appearance
Eastern sand skink is a medium-sized skink with a streamlined body and smooth, glossy scales. Its dorsal surface displays a dominant brown to beige color, often with a faint variegated pattern. It is recognisable by the longitudinal stripes on either side of its body, running from the head to the tip of the tapering tail. Eastern sand skink does not exhibit noticeable differences in appearance due to age, gender or subspecies.
Behavior
Eastern sand skink is known for its solitary, daytime activity, often retreating to shaded areas in high temperatures. It exhibits unique foraging behaviors, swiftly catching insects on ground and vegetation. Its territorial nature is marked by the dominance of adult males, who fiercely defend their home range, majorly against male conspecifics.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Afro-malagasy mabuyas Species
Eastern sand skink