Mottled Snake-Eyed Skink

Range

Native to many islands in the Pacific. It has been introduced in Hawaii.

Habitats

Lives in rocky coastal habitats, including lava beaches and on rock walls. It prefers dry areas.

Identification

This unique lizard is named for its eyes which lack moveable eyelids and are instead covered with transparent scales, like a snake. It is on the small side, averaging less than 5 cm in snout to vent length. Like other skinks, it has smooth, shiny scales, a pointed snout, and a long, slender body. Its legs are set far apart and are somewhat long compared to other skinks. It's primarily dark brown to black with cream speckles or mottling. These speckles come together to form light dorsolateral lines that extend from behind the eyes to the base of the tail where they blend together.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians