Reptile
Five-lined Skink
Plestiodon species · genus lizard-Scincidae
Adult at shed opening; baby near front door · Habitat: Structures and woodland edge
About
Description
Small, sleek terrestrial lizard characterized by smooth, glossy scales and prominent pale longitudinal stripes extending along a dark brown to black body. Juveniles of several Plestiodon species may display vivid blue tails, while coloration and striping can become less pronounced with maturity. Generally harmless to humans. No need for removal when encountered outdoors or in an appropriate sheltered location. If trapped indoors, gently relocating it immediately outside near protective vegetation, logs or leaf litter is appropriate.
Safety Cautions
Species unresolved; avoid tail handling
Not edible.
No known use.
Primarily insectivorous. Feeds on insects, spiders and other small invertebrates. Predator of small invertebrates and part of the larger woodland food web. Skinks can contribute to natural insect regulation while also serving as prey for snakes, birds and other predators.
Woodlands, forest edges, fallen logs, leaf litter, stumps, rocks and human structures adjoining wooded habitat. Frequently uses protected cracks and cavities as shelter.
Summer
Structures and woodland edge
Opening of shed; baby also found near front door
Wildlife and symbolic observation value
Photograph adult coloration and scale pattern
References
Knowledge Sources
Portal 33 wildlife conversation
Imported from Portal 33 Living Atlas Master Inventory v4
Educational use only. Identification, edibility, and traditional medicinal knowledge is shared for learning. Always obtain positive identification before eating, harvesting, or medicinally using any plant or fungi. This Atlas is not medical advice.