Photos by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Plestiodon skiltonianus

Common name: Western Skink

Size: 1.73-2.95 in (4.4-7.5 cm)

Distinguishing characters: Broad, brown stripe down middle of the back edged with black; pale whitish or golden stripes down sides, separated by a beige stripe beginning behind eyes; ventral side is whitish or grey; smooth scales; small legs; stripes appear faded in older adults.

Juveniles: Stripes are more contrasting; a bright cobalt blue tail.

Dimorphism: Male has orange to pinkish margin of lower jaw and ventral side of tail during breeding season. Sex of non-breeding adults and juveniles is difficult to distinguish.

Similar species: Plestiodon gilberti: Dorsal stripe is black, edged eith white, grey or olive striping; juveniles have waxy reddish or pink tails, adults are unicolor olive-green. Aspidoscelis hyperythrus: Has large, square ventral scales, forked tongue, larger legs, granular dorsal scales. Elgaria multicarinata: Has keeled dorsal scales; prominent lateral fold.

Additional notes: A common species, although seldom seen in the open. Small, delicate species with smooth scales making individuals difficult to handle. Will lose tail easily, and body scales may come off of young individuals if handled too roughly. Lives in most terrestrial habitat types. This species is found throughout the reserve bu appears to be most common in the upland habitat and mesa tops, being rare on the back dunes.