Florida Sand Skink
Plestiodon reynoldsi
A very small skink that only reaches 4-5 inches in length and has extremely small legs with only 1 toe on each front foot and 2 toes on each hind foot. It often folds the…
How to identify
A very small skink that only reaches 4-5 inches in length and has extremely small legs with only 1 toe on each front foot and 2 toes on each hind foot. It often folds these tiny legs into the lateral grooves on its sides, allowing it to slither through loose sand like a snake. Its tail is about the same length as its body, and it has a small torpedo-shaped head. Its body is pale tan to grey, sometimes with black flecks, and it has a black streak down each side of its face.
Range
Narrow range down the middle of central Florida.
Habitat
This species prefers sandy substrate in Florida scrub habitats. It is often found in the moist area beneath leaf litter near associated growth of Florida rosemary and sand pine, or longleaf pine and American turkey oak.
Variations
The black streaks on its face sometimes extend down the sides of the body.
Similar species
This unique species of skink is not likely to be confused with any other eastern species. It is mildly similar to the San Diegan legless lizard (*Anniella stebbinsi*) found in southern California.
Name and etymology
Reynoldsi: Honoring A. G. Reynolds
At a glance
Range
Narrow range down the middle of central Florida.
Habitat
This species prefers sandy substrate in Florida scrub habitats. It is often found in the moist area beneath leaf litter near…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap