African Striped Skink
( striped skink )
- Trachylepis striata
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- Threat: harmless
- Venom/Toxin: none
- Trend: unconfirmed
General Information
The African striped skink (Trachylepis striata) is a species of lizard in the skink family (Scincidae).
It is not a close relation to the Australian striped skink, Ctenotus taeniolatus.
Description
T. striata is brown or bronze-coloured with two yellowish stripes that run lengthwise on either side of the spine. Both sexes grow to a total length (including tail) of 25 cm. Their tails are often missing due to predators.
Ecology & Behaviour
This species has been recorded from a wide range of habitats and is considered to be quite adaptable and to tolerate urbanization “very well” (Spawls et al. 2002). Spawls et al. (2002) report the species from forest clearings, coastal thicket, moist and dry savanna and semi-desert. In anthropogenic areas, including plantations and urban gardens, it can be found on walls and fences (Spawls et al. 2002).
Reproduction
It is viviparous, giving birth to up to nine young (Spawls et al. 2002).
Distribtion & Habitat
The species is widespread in East Africa and Southern Africa.
References
Share:
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Squamata
- Family: Scincidae
- Genus: Trachylepis
- Length: up to 25 cm
