Azure-Tailed Skink

Range

It is endemic to the Pacific, particularly to Polynesia and Micronesia. It was introduced into the Hawaiian Islands by the Polynesians.

Habitats

The Azure-tailed skink can be found on land hiding from the midday sun or predators under leaves, grasses or rocks. They like to burrow and can be seen hiding in logs or loose sand substrate. They are diurnal and can shed their tails when threatened. The tail which grows back lacks the beauty of the original and is stunted. It is insectivorous and reproduces through oviparity. They were until recently considered extinct in the USA thanks to the activities of man and the invasive big-headed ant.

Identification

The adult emoia impar grows longer than 8 inches. It has a brownish-gray to dark gray base coloration with 3 copper lines running from its snout to its upper tail on its back. The entire length of its body is covered in shiny smooth scales. The underbelly is dark gray. The limbs have long clawed fingers and toes. The front limbs are short while the hind limbs are almost double its length. The tail is longer than its body and distinctively colored blue.

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