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Trees- ShrubsOcellated Skink (Chalcides ocellatus)
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There are around 25 species found within the genus Chalcides, with a number of sub-species having been raised to full species (1). This genus is found mainly throughout northern Africa, and can be found as far as western Asia. There are eight species that are found throughout Britain and Europe (2). There are no similar species to Chalcides ocellatus found within Europe (2).
When fully mature, the Ocellated Skink can reach a length of up to 30 cm, with the tail accounting for about half of this. It has a pointed head, thick neck and short limbs with five toes (2). Due to the smooth, shiny scales present on the body, Chalcides ocellatus has a glossy appearance. This skink usually has a pale brown to grey colouration, sometimes with an olive tinge (1). There is little sexual differentiation in this skink species, with males having slightly larger heads (1). C. ocellatus is an agile species, and with its serpentine motion can rapidly burrow into loose soil (2).
The Ocellated Skink gives birth to live young after a six to 12 week gestation period. Females can produce up to 20 young, but usually around six to 15 are born (2). Sexual maturity is reached at three years of age (2).
Chalcides ocellatus can be found in sandy habitats, commonly in lowlands near the sea (1). It is encountered in both dry and damp areas, often in olive groves, vineyards and near human habitation (2). This skink can often be found basking on stones and rocks during the day (1). It is a diurnal species, but can be active at night in warm weather (2).
This species can be found throughout southern Italy, the Attica region, Peloponnese and Kryoneri of mainland Greece as well as the Aegean islands (Kea, Crete, Chios, Rhodes). It is also found in north and north-east Africa, and south-east Asia (2).
Chalcides ocellatus mainly feeds on invertebrates, with larger specimens feeding on small lizards (1).
Chalcides ocellatus is listed under the IUCN red list as Near Threatened (low risk) (3).
Listed under Appendix II of BERN Convention (4).
Description written by Sheridan Willis (2009)
(1) Cyber Lizard (2005) [online] Available: http://www.cyberlizard.plus.com/skinks_chalcides.htm [date accessed: 23/06/2009]
(2) Arnold, E.N., 2004. A field guide to the reptiles and amphibians of Britain and Europe. 2nd ed. London: Harper Collins Publishers.
(3) IUCN (2008) IUCN Red List of Threatened Species [online] Available: http://www.iucnredlist.org [date accessed 19/06/2009]
(4) Europe, C.o., 2002. Convention on the conservation of European wildlife and natural habitats: Bern Convention. [Online] Available at: http://conventions.coe.int/Treaty/FR/Treaties/Html/104-2.htm [Accessed 23 July 2009].06/2009]
