Plestiodon septentrionalis

Scientific name. Plestiodon septentrionalis

Common Name. Prairie Skink

General information. This diurnal skink species is wary and retreats at the first sign of danger. This species forages for insects and spiders and is most active just prior to sunrise

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

Diagnostic features. Short limbs. Comparatively short tail, about 1 1/4 times the head-body length

Coloration. Dorsal ground color is brown. Dorsal pattern consists of a dark dorsolateral line from the neck onto the tail bordered on each side by a lighter pigment. Ventral surface is light and unmarked Males have orange coloration on head during breeding season.

General distribution. In North America, Plestiodon septentrionalis has a narrow range from Kansas to Texas.

Texas distribution. The single subspecies of Plestiodon septentrionalis found in Texas, P. s. obtusirostris, is found in the eastern third of the state, save the southeastern corner.

Habitat. Plestiodon septentrionalis is often observed in moist environments among rocks, leaf litter, or other debris.

Reproduction. Breeding takes place in early summer. Females lay up to 18 eggs. Hatchlings have bright blue tails.

Size. Plestiodon septentrionalis reaches adult size at 12.5-20 cm (5-8 in) total length.

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.