PREHENSILE-TAIL SKINK
Corucia zebrata
Reptile
Order Squamata
Description
Largest known living species of skink, reaching a length of
32 inches. Color: the body is olive to green, with scattered black scales
on the back and legs.
Range
Solomon Islands
Status
C.I.T.E.S. II. Over collection for the pet trade and logging
are still a concern. The Solomon Island government has regulated trade on
these and other reptiles to help avoid endangerment.

Photo by Greg Neise |
 |
Ecology
- Habitat
- Tropical rain forests
-
- Niche
- Nocturnal and herbivorous, feeding mainly on the leaves of the Solomon
Islands creeper plant.
Life History
Unlike other skinks, these animals are arboreal, spending little or no
time on the ground. They are usually found in the oldest trees in the primary
forest. These skinks lack the ability to drop their tails. The tail is used
as an extra appendage. Copulation takes place during early evening in the
trees, and may last from five to fifteen minutes. The gestation is about
six to seven months after which a single (rarely two) large young will be
born.
Special Adaptations
- Large strong digits equipped with sharp claws allow the skink to climb
with ease.
- Disruptive color patterns and slow movements help the skink go unnoticed.
|