GREEN TREE SKINK
Lamprolepis smaragdina
DESCRIPTION
The Green Tree Skink (Lamprolepis smaragdina) is a vibrant green lizard known for its arboreal lifestyle. It is commonly found in tropical forests and is recognized for its long, slender body and prehensile tail.
FUN FACTS
- They can change color slightly based on their environment | Green Tree Skinks are excellent climbers and can often be seen basking on branches | They are known for their long lifespan compared to other small lizards
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Length30-40 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Green Tree Skinks inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, often found in trees and shrubs. They prefer humid environments where they can easily find food and shelter.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Native to New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and surrounding islands.
- Continent
- Oceania
- Countries
- Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Indonesia
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. It may also consume small fruits and flowers occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
30-40 cm
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with a smooth, shiny appearance
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and may have more vibrant coloration
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 5-10 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to logging and agriculture. Climate change may also impact their habitat.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, and larger reptiles
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can drop their tails to escape predators, which can later regenerate.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon