Skink is any of a large group of small lizards that live in mild and tropical regions. There are about 1,100 species of skinks. They are most common in Australia, Africa, Asia, and islands of the western Pacific Ocean. Only a few species live in North America.
Most skinks are active during the day. They generally hunt for small insects. A few species eat other lizards or plants. Most species live on the ground, but some are found in trees, on rocks, or underground.
The largest skinks grow up to 2 feet (61 centimeters) long. However, most skinks measure less than 16 inches (41 centimeters). Skinks have scaly skin that may be brightly colored or striped. Small pieces of bone under their scales provide a protective suit of armor. Most skinks have short, weak legs and move slower than other lizards. Some skinks that live underground have no legs at all. They burrow through soil using wriggling, snakelike movements. Most females lay eggs. In a few species, the females guard the eggs until they hatch. The females of many species bear live young.
See also Shingleback lizard.
