Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus). 



Description: The second of western Montana's two lizard species, the Western skink is smaller 

 (2 - 3.5" snout-vent length) than the Alligator lizard and is characterized by round, shinny 

 scales and an elongate head. The color pattern in adults consists of a broad, brown stripe 

 edged with black, running lengthwise down the back. The brown band is paralleled by a light 

 and then dark band on each side of the body. The stripes extend onto the head but fade on 

 the tail. The Western skink is thought to lay 2-6 eggs (Stebbins 1985), but the exact number 

 and dates of oviposition are not known in this area. In young animals, the tail is bight blue 

 but the color fades with age. The Western skink is in the Scincidae family. 



Habitat and Habits: Western skinks are found in habitats similar to those of the Alligator lizard, 

 i.e. cool, moist forests, often along streams. They may also be seen sunning themselves in 

 open areas. Although diurnal in habits, skinks are secretive and not often seen. Where they 

 have been studied, females guard the eggs until hatching. 



Surveying: Large drop cans or lizard traps can be used for sampling but like the Alligator lizard, 

 the best opportunity for seeing skinks is probably to visit known sites during warm sunny 

 days and allow considerable observation time. 



Status: Distribution in the KNF is unknown. Only two sightings of skinks have been reported in 

 the Forest including one during this survey at the Kootenai River on the Idaho border. It is 

 recommended that all sightings be kept on record. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S3. 



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