Broadhead Skink
Plestiodon (formerly Eumeces) laticeps
Description
This species is larger in size than the five-lined skink but similar in appearance. Young are vividly colored with a black background, bright yellow stripes and a blue tail. Adult males are brown or olive with a large, broad, red head. The red color is more pronounced during breeding season. Adult females are brownish with five light stripes running the length of the body to the tail. This species may be identified by having five labial scales at the upper lip.
Stats
Size
6 ½ – 12 ¾ inches
Status
Uncommon
Similar Species
Five-lined skink, Six-lined Racerunner
Diet
Feeds on small or young rodents, bird eggs, spiders, insects, and other invertebrates.
Habitat
This is a woodland species. Large trees with holes or decaying trees are favored. It is also found on rocky hillsides. They tolerate damp or moist conditions.
Reproduction
Courtship and mating occurs in spring. This species is oviparous and 4 to 8 eggs may be deposited in rotting wood, sawdust piles, mulch, or under loose bark. Eggs are guarded by the female during incubation.