Five-lined Skink
(
Eumeces fasciatus)
In Essex County this species is only found at Point Pelee National Park and is the only species of lizard
found in all of Ontario.  The can reach about 3.5" (snout to vent measurement) as adults.  Young Five-lined
Skinks (see last photo below) have five lines running down the body and a bright blue tail, the adults
(pictured above is an adult male) lose the bold striping and blue tail to become a brownish gray.  Adult
males take on a gorgeous orangish colour around the face and head area during breeding season.  Like
most lizards this species will often drop its tail if threatened.  The tail will writhe around and draw attention
away from the body which can then make an escape.  It is not unusual to see skinks with regenerated tails.
five-lined skink (Eumeces fasciatus)
Photo taken at Point Pelee National Park
five-lined skink (Eumeces fasciatus)
Photo taken at Point Pelee National Park
five-lined skink (Eumeces fasciatus)
Photo taken at Point Pelee National Park

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