AFRICAN GOLD SKINK
Trachylepis aurata
DESCRIPTION
African Gold Skink (Trachylepis aurata) is a small, slender lizard known for its striking golden coloration, which can vary from bright yellow to a more muted gold. This skink is primarily terrestrial and is often found basking in the sun or hiding under leaf litter and rocks. It plays an important role in its ecosystem as both a predator of small invertebrates and as prey for larger animals.
FUN FACTS
- The African Gold Skink is known for its ability to regenerate its tail if lost, a common trait among many lizard species
- Additionally, their shiny scales help them reflect sunlight, which may assist in thermoregulation during hot days
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Length10-15 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
- Habitat
- This species typically inhabits grasslands, savannas, and forest edges. It prefers areas with ample ground cover for hiding and hunting.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland, Tropical Forest
- Native Range
- The African Gold Skink is native to various regions across sub-Saharan Africa.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique
- Diet
- The African Gold Skink primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. It uses its keen eyesight to hunt and capture its prey.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
10-15 cm
Length
- Coloration
- golden yellow to light brown with a smooth, shiny appearance
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males may be slightly larger than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization. Additionally, climate change may impact their habitats.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, larger lizards
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can quickly escape into crevices or burrows to avoid predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon