Reptiles and Amphibians of the Table Rocks

Western Skink

Western Skink

Western Skink
Eumeces skiltonianus

Jens V. Vindum
© 1999 California Academy of Sciences

I have smooth scales like a snake and a bright blue tail. If you try to catch me by my tail, it may break off and wiggle in your hand for a few minutes. I do this to trick my predators to go after my tail as I safely escape.

I like to live in the mixed woodland, and grassy areas of Table Rocks. I also like stream sides, especially where rocks are abundant. I can be found under leaf litter, bark, logs, or rocks.

I am diurnal or most active during the day. I feed on a variety of insects, their larvae, spiders, and earthworms.