Although I did a nature update about five-lined skinks (Plestiodon fasciatus) back in June ...

Although I did a nature update about five-lined skinks (Plestiodon fasciatus) back in June ...

Although I did a nature update about five-lined skinks (Plestiodon fasciatus) back in June, I thought today would be a good day to highlight the juveniles of the species. I hauled off some trash yesterday morning and when I opened the lid of my garbage can, I found this little guy hanging out on the rim. It immediately lost its footing and fell inside the can. Naturally, I tipped the can over and rooted through trash until I could scoop the little idiot out. It rewarded my kindness by biting my thumb several times.

Five-lined skinks are very common in southside Virginia and you've probably seen several of them this spring and summer. Now is a good time to keep an eye peeled for juveniles like this one. These skinks begin mating in May and the females lay eggs about a month after mating. It takes four to six weeks for the young to hatch, which means the juveniles emerge during July and August. While this skink is a juvenile, I have seen smaller skinks than this one, so I'm betting it's at least a few weeks old.

Five-lined skinks reach sexual maturity after two to three years, and they have a lifespan of up to six years. They mostly eat insects and spiders, and if you have a lot of skinks on your property, it's entertaining to watch them hunt. I recently saw one eat a moth that was nearly twice the size of its head! You have to make your own fun during quarantine. #BenInNature

ABOUT THIS POST
Social distancing can be difficult, but it presents a great opportunity to become reacquainted with nature. While he is working from home, Administrator of Science Ben Williams is venturing outdoors each day to record a snapshot of the unique sights that can be found in the natural world.

NATURE PHOTO IDENTIFICATIONS
If you discover something in nature that you would like help identifying, be sure to message us right here on Facebook with a picture (please include location and date of picture) and we'll have our experts help you identify it!

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