Five-Lined Skink

Scientific Name:

The scientific name for the Five-Lined Skink is Plestiodon fasciatus

Where they're located in New Jersey:

Five-Lined Skinks are located throughout the state

Placement on Endangerment Scale:

Vulnerable in state (VU)

Physical characteristics:

Juvenile Five-Lined Skins are black with five light colored lines running from the head to the end of the tail. The tail is bright blue. Adult males are brown with faint stripes or solid brown coloring. Adult females are brown with brighter stripes. Both adults have grey or blue tails. During mating season males have red-orange coloring on their head. Five-Lined Skinks can grow to be 5-8.5 inches in length.

Preferred habitat:

In damp habitats under rotting logs, boards or rock piles. Occasionally climbs trees.