Solomon Islands skink

DESCRIPTION

The giant Solomon Islands skink is the largest known skink. It is characterised by a large body and big head with muscular jaws. It has strong, sharp claws which serve for climbing trees with the help of its long prehensile tail. It is green with yellow or greyish tones, and sometimes has darker transversal stripes.

ETHOLOGY

It is an arboreal reptile with nocturnal habits, with very strong territorial behaviour. The males fight each other ferociously, while the females are gregarious and live in small groups with their young, protected by a male. After a 6-7 month gestation, a single newborn of almost one third of the size of the adult is born.

CURIOSITIES

The low reproductive potential of this skink makes it vulnerable, although it is not currently considered endangered. Its main threats are the extensive deforestation of its habitat, its consumption by indigenous communities and excess exportation for trade as pets.