Southeastern five-lined skink

The southeastern five-lined skink, scientifically known as Plestiodon inexpectatus, is a prevalent lizard species indigenous to the southeastern United States. Its name, inexpectatus, meaning "the unexpected," likely refers to its recognition as a distinct species relatively late in scientific history, nearly two centuries after its close relative was described.

Physical Characteristics and Identification

This skink is easily identified by its common name, featuring five narrow stripes running lengthwise down its body. These stripes tend to fade and become less distinct as the lizard matures. The coloration of the stripes and the interspaces changes with age; young skinks have black between their stripes, which turns brown in adults. A notable characteristic of juveniles is their vibrant blue or purplish tail, particularly towards the tip, and stripes that display a bright reddish-orange hue near the head. This juvenile coloration can persist into adulthood, giving the head a distinctly orange-brown look.

Distinguishing the southeastern five-lined skink from the similar American five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus) can be challenging, though the former is generally slightly larger and exhibits narrower stripes. However, subtle differences in stripe width mean that visual identification in the field may not always be definitive.

Habitat and Behavior

Southeastern five-lined skinks are commonly found in wooded areas across their native range. They have also adapted to life on small islands off the southeastern coast, demonstrating a remarkable ability to survive even in the absence of freshwater sources and significant vegetation. These lizards are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and are primarily ground-dwelling.

Diet and Reproduction

As with other skinks in the Plestiodon genus, the southeastern five-lined skink is an insectivore. Their diet primarily consists of insects, with a notable preference for larger prey items such as grasshoppers.

Reproductively, this species is oviparous, laying eggs. The clutch size typically ranges from six to twelve eggs, with the number of eggs tending to decrease at higher latitudes. A significant aspect of their reproductive behavior is the female's dedication to brooding and protecting the eggs from potential predators, including other skinks. Hatchlings usually emerge approximately one month after the eggs are laid, typically around the beginning of summer.