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Broadhead Skink
Plestiodon laticeps
Description
The region's largest skink, a tree-climbing lizard whose breeding males sport a swollen, bright orange-red head. Shy and quick to vanish up a trunk.
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.
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