Herpetofauna: One Life's List

Scincella lateralis
Ground Skink

Franklin Co., Missouri
Spring 1974

There's just the slightest rustle from the leaf litter, barely heard.  No movement can be seen.  What is it? Chances are it's a Ground Skink, one of the most common lizards in the eastern and southeastern United States.  Any leaf litter in any patch of woods is likely to hold these small lizards.  They may take refuge under stones and logs and other debris, but during the day they are usually out foraging for insects in the leaf litter.

The Scincella pictured here was found in near Okefenokee Swamp in southern Georgia.