Shore Skink - Oligosoma smithi (Also known as Short-tailed Skink and Smith's Skink)

The Shore Skink is always found near the shoreline and prefers open areas such as around driftwood at the high tide mark. Common of skinks it eats insects and probably anything that moves and fits in its mouth. It was named after Lt Alexander Smith who collected the original specimens in the 1840s. The Shore Skink is diurnal (active during the day) and spends most of its time hunting or basking in the sun. It is small growing to only 8cm and it is well camouflaged. This skink may be found in a range of colours - sometimes almost black.

© Images Dr Paddy Ryan