Plestiodon anthracinus

Scientific name. Plestiodon anthracinus

Common Name. Coal Skink

General information. Plestiodon anthracinus is a diurnal skink that avoids capture by slipping into the water and hiding under stones or debris. This skink species feeds on adult insects and insect larvae.

Protected status. The Coal Skink is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Small, cylindrical lizard with a pale, unmarked ventral surface Glossy scales and a long, easily broken tail

Coloration. Dorsal ground color is olive brown. Dorsal pattern consists of two light stripes from the neck onto the tail on each side with a darker coloration between them Males have red coloration on head during breeding season.

General distribution. In North America, Plestiodon anthracinus is found from Missouri and Nebraska to Texas and Louisiana, in parts of Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia.

Texas distribution. The single subspecies of Plestiodon anthracinus found in Texas, P. a. pluvialis, is found in the northeastern part of the state.

Habitat. Plestiodon anthracinus is seen on wooded hillsides near creeks or streams in moist, humid environments.

Reproduction. Egg clutches (average 8 or 9 eggs) are laid in June with the female remaining to guard the nest from predators. Eggs typically hatch after 30 days.

Size. Plestiodon anthracinus reaches adult lengths of 12.5-17.5 cm (5-7 in), including tail.

Map. Orange counties indicate new county records since previous Herps of Texas update in 1998; all other colored counties reflect known distribution prior to 1998 for species and/or subspecies. Map is based on museum voucher specimens.