Family: Scincidae, Skinks view all from this family

Description 6 1/2-13 3/4" (16.5-34.9 cm). The largest skink. Scale rows on sides oblique to rows on back. Dark edges of brown scales may align to form indistinct lengthwise stripes. Sides yellow. Juveniles black with white spots on lips, bright blue tail.

Breeding Mates April to May. Clutch of 7-21 eggs, laid in nest excavations under rocks, May to June, hatches July to August. Female tends eggs.

Habitat Open rocky grasslands of the Great Plains; near permanent or semipermanent water in otherwise drier areas.

Range Se. Wyoming, s. Nebraska, and extreme sw. Iowa through the Great Plains to c. Arizona, Mexico, and wc. Texas.

Discussion Diurnal. This husky skink feeds on insects, spiders, and small lizards. It will bite if handled.