Broad-headed Skink

Description

The Broad-headed Skink is the largest skink in Tennessee and can be found across the state, except for the extreme northeastern corner.  It is a large, smooth-scaled lizard (6.5 to 12.5 inches in length) with short legs and a stocky body.   Adult males, the namesake of this species, are olive-brown with large, swollen red heads during the breeding season.   Adult females are variable, but usually have up to 5 light or faded stripes on a brownish body.   Juveniles have 5 distinct, light colored stripes on a black background with a bright blue tail.

Similar Species: Females and juveniles are easily confused with Common Five-lined Skink and Southeastern Five-lined Skink; positive identification can only be assured by examination of the scales.   Common Five-lined Skinks have 4 labial scales (along the upper lip between the nose and eye), and Southeastern Five-lined Skinks do not have an enlarged middle row of scales under the tail.

Habitat: Prefers moist woodlands and edges of wood lots. Found on stumps, logs, fences, old farm buildings, and in trees.

Diet: Variety of invertebrates and some small vertebrates, including other skinks.

Breeding information: Adults court and breed in spring, with males being very territorial.   Females lay 5-20 eggs in rotten log cavities during the summer. They will guard them for 1-2 months until hatching.

Status in Tennessee: Common throughout Tennessee except in the mountains.

Best places to see in Tennessee: Rural wood lots, farm fences, and buildings.