The Common Garden Skink, also known as Lampropholis guichenoti, is a small species of lizard that is endemic to Australia. This species is commonly found in suburban gardens around Victoria, Australia, and is known to be a helpful animal that feeds on insects and controls their populations. The Common Garden Skink is a small, brown or grey lizard that lives in a variety of treed habitats.
These lizards have a slender body and a pointed snout, and can grow up to 7.5 cm in length. They are typically brownish-black in color, but their skin can turn dark red if they sun themselves on a rock or other garden object. When threatened, garden skinks will dive underwater if they are near a body of water and stay submerged for as long as five to six minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The Common Garden Skink is a small species of lizard that is endemic to Australia and commonly found in suburban gardens around Victoria.
- These lizards have a slender body and a pointed snout, and can grow up to 7.5 cm in length. They are typically brownish-black in color, but their skin can turn dark red if they sun themselves on a rock or other garden object.
- When threatened, garden skinks will dive underwater if they are near a body of water and stay submerged for as long as five to six minutes.
Species Overview
Taxonomy
The Common Garden Skink (Lampropholis guichenoti) is a small species of lizard belonging to the family Scincidae. It was first described by French zoologist André Marie Constant Duméril in 1851. The specific epithet, guichenoti, honors French zoologist Antoine Alphonse Guichenot.
Physical Description
The Common Garden Skink is a small lizard that can grow up to 14 cm (5.5 in) in total length, including its tail. On average, it measures between 8-10 cm (3.1-3.9 in) in total length. It has a slender body and a pointed snout. Its coloration is usually brown or black, but it can also appear a dark shade of red when basking in the sun. The lighter its color, the more likely it is to be found in open areas.
Distribution and Habitat
The Common Garden Skink is endemic to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, woodlands, and grasslands. It is diurnal and feeds primarily on insects. It is also known to eat spiders and other small invertebrates. The species is oviparous, and females lay small, white eggs between summer and mid-autumn. The eggs hatch in a matter of weeks after they are laid.
In summary, the Common Garden Skink is a small lizard that is native to Australia. It has a slender body and can grow up to 14 cm (5.5 in) in total length. It is usually brown or black in color, but can appear a dark shade of red when basking in the sun. The species is diurnal and feeds primarily on insects. It is oviparous and can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, woodlands, and grasslands.
Behavior and Ecology
Diet
The Common Garden Skink (Lampropholis guichenoti) is a small, diurnal, carnivorous lizard species native to Australia. Their diet mainly consists of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. They are known to eat a wide variety of prey, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. They may also consume small vertebrates such as geckos, skinks, and even their own young.
Reproduction
Common Garden Skinks are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. They typically breed in the spring and summer months, with females laying clutches of 1-5 eggs in communal nest sites. The eggs are oval-shaped and have a soft, leathery texture. The incubation period lasts around 6-8 weeks, after which the young hatch and are fully independent.
Predators and Threats
Common Garden Skinks are preyed upon by a variety of predators, including birds, snakes, and other lizards. They are also threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization and land-use changes. However, they are considered a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to their wide distribution and adaptability to a range of habitats.
In summary, the Common Garden Skink is a small, diurnal lizard species native to Australia. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of insects and small invertebrates. They lay eggs and breed in the spring and summer months. They are preyed upon by a variety of predators and are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation.
Interaction with Humans
Common garden skinks are small, agile, and generally harmless to humans. They are commonly found in gardens and urban areas throughout Australia [1]. Skinks play an important role in the garden ecosystem by preying on insects and other small invertebrates, helping to control their populations [1].
Garden Ecosystem Role
Skinks are diurnal and carnivorous, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates [3]. They are also important prey for larger predators such as birds, snakes, and other reptiles [1]. By controlling insect populations, skinks help to maintain a healthy garden ecosystem and contribute to the overall health and balance of the environment [1].
Conservation Status
Common garden skinks are not considered endangered or threatened, but they are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 [2]. It is illegal to harm or kill skinks without a permit, and they should not be kept as pets [2]. While they are not considered a threatened species, their habitats are threatened by urbanization, habitat destruction, and other human activities [1].
In summary, common garden skinks are important members of the garden ecosystem, playing an important role in controlling insect populations. While they are generally harmless to humans, they should be treated with respect and not kept as pets.
Care in Captivity
Housing Requirements
Common garden skinks are relatively small in size and can be housed in a variety of enclosures. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a single skink, and a larger tank is recommended for multiple skinks. The enclosure should have a secure lid to prevent escape and provide adequate ventilation. The substrate should be a mix of soil and sand to mimic their natural habitat. A hiding spot, such as a rock or log, should be provided for the skink to retreat to. The enclosure should be kept at a temperature range of 75-85°F during the day and 65-75°F at night. A basking spot with a heat lamp should also be provided.
Dietary Needs
In captivity, common garden skinks should be fed a varied diet of insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. They also enjoy small amounts of fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, strawberries, and kale. A calcium supplement should be added to their food to prevent metabolic bone disease. It is important to feed them appropriately sized prey to prevent choking or digestive issues. Fresh water should be provided at all times in a shallow dish.
Health and Veterinary Care
Common garden skinks are generally healthy and hardy animals, but they still require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. Signs of illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, and abnormal feces. It is important to address any health concerns promptly. The enclosure should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites. A veterinarian experienced in reptile care should be consulted for any health issues or concerns.
Overall, with proper care and attention, common garden skinks can make fascinating and low-maintenance pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average size of a common garden skink?
The average size of a common garden skink is around 20cm in length, with males being slightly larger than females. Juvenile skinks are much smaller and can be as tiny as 3cm.
Are common garden skinks venomous or poisonous to humans?
No, common garden skinks are not venomous or poisonous to humans. They are harmless and pose no threat to humans.
Can common garden skinks be kept as pets, and what are their care requirements?
Yes, common garden skinks can be kept as pets. They are relatively easy to care for, but require a specific set of conditions to thrive. They need a spacious enclosure with plenty of hiding spots, a heat source, and access to UVB lighting. They also require a balanced diet of insects, fruits, and vegetables. It’s important to research their care requirements thoroughly before deciding to keep them as pets.
How long do common garden skinks typically live?
Common garden skinks have a lifespan of around 5-10 years in the wild. In captivity, they can live up to 15 years with proper care.
What do common garden skinks eat, and do they consume ants?
Common garden skinks are omnivores and eat a variety of insects, fruits, and vegetables. They are known to consume ants, but they do not rely solely on them as a food source.
What are the benefits of having common garden skinks in my yard?
Common garden skinks are beneficial to have in your yard as they help control insect populations, including ants, which can be a nuisance. They are also fascinating creatures to observe and can add to the biodiversity of your yard.