Many-lined Skink

Eumeces multivirgatus

This widespread western species may be found in a variety of habitats. Young have a blue tail, which fades with age. Catching skinks is best attempted early in the morning when they are still cool and slow-moving. Look under rocks, logs, and boards, especially at the edges of wet meadows. If you attempt to capture skinks that are alert and active you will quite often end up with just a tail, as skink tails break off very easily. Once a skink loses a tail it can be regrown, but the skink loses a large amount of important stored energy.

Look For : A thin skink with short legs, very long tail, and light and dark lines (sometimes stripeless).

Length : 5-7 1/2".

Habitat : From deserts and prairies to mountain forests, canyon streamsides, and vacant lots. Range: Central to southwestern U.S.

Range : Central to southwestern U.S.