Conservation Status: Threatened (Shield Populations; Endangered (Carolinian Populations) (SARA); Protected (FWCA); Endangered (COSEWIC)

Size: 20 cm (8”)

Defining feature(s): The five-lined skink is the only lizard found in Ontario.  Smooth cylindrical scales with five pale yellow to cream coloured lines running the length of the body are the key identification features.

Other features: The body colour of juveniles and females is typically black. Males tend to range from black to brown with noticeable coppery colouration on the head and cheeks in the spring.  The tail of juveniles and females is bright blue while males tales tend to be less bright.  Regenerated tails are more gray than blue as are the tails of older individuals.  Colour and pattern generally becomes more dull with age.

Habitat: In the north along the Canadian Shield, skinks are associated with open rock habitat along the edges of forests, fields and wetlands.  In the Carolinian zone, these lizards are associated with open grassy habitats and oak savannah habitats.

Reproduction: Reproduction occurs in April or May and eggs are laid in June.  Females lay the eggs under rocks and logs in clutches of 6-10 eggs which are often guarded by the female until they hatch in late summer.