Trachylepis homalocephala (Wiegmann, 1828)

Species Introduction

This small, elegant species of skink, scientifically named Trachylepis homalocephala, has a shiny body marked with bright stripes.

Breeding Male Coloration

Breeding-season males change color, and develop bright red stripes along their flanks.

Native Range

T. homalocephala is indigenous to Southern Africa.

Coastal Habitat and Distribution

It most commonly lives in coastal thicket and leaf litter along the South African coast, ranging from Cape Town east along the coast to Mozambique.

Inland Populations

A small number of tiny, isolated populations can also be found in moist mountainous areas further inland.

Reproduction

Adult female red-sided skinks lay around six eggs during summer.