Lygisaurus aeratus (syn. Carlia aerata)

Carlia aerate

(Rainbow Skink)

FAMILY

Scincidae

Species

Lygisaurus aeratus (syn. Carlia aerata)

Common name

Rainbow Skink

Main colour

Olive-brown with some flecks

Body size

Snout to vent about 4 cm, tail about 4 cm long

Location

Cairns, Townsville

Description

This skink has been observed on the Douglas campus but it is more commonly found in wetter areas. It is difficult to see as it is usually hidden under litter particularly in rocky patches in woodlands, and sclerophyll forests. The body is olive-brown above, paler below with a coppery brown head, there are often whitish flecks present on the flanks. Breeding males are flushed with red.