Little Brown Skink
Scincella lateralis
What it is
Scincella lateralis is a small species of skink found throughout much of the eastern half of the United States, and into northern Mexico.
Where and when to find it
- Habitat
- Widespread across the eastern and central United States, in woodlands, gardens, and under leaf litter.
- How to find it
- Gently turn over rocks, logs, or leaf litter in shady, damp areas. They are very skittish and quick!
- Best time of day
- Daytime, spring through fall
How it lives
- What it eats
- Small insects, spiders, worms
- What eats it
- Small snakes, birds, spiders, mammals
Worth knowing
- They are one of the most common lizards in the eastern US.
- They can shed their tail if caught, which wiggles to distract a predator.
- They have very smooth, shiny scales.
- Young skinks sometimes have a bright blue tail.
- They are very good at burrowing into loose soil and leaf litter.
- They prefer moist habitats, unlike many other lizards.
Why it matters
These small lizards help control insect populations and are a food source for many small predators. They are a sign of a healthy forest floor.