Identification
The Metallic Skink, Niveoscincus metallicum, is larger in size than the Coventry’s Skink, N. coventryi, and possesses a single frontoparietal scale on top of its head. It is usually mottled in colour, often with ocelli on the tail and has a snout vent length of up to 60 mm.
Metallic Skink
Photographer: Peter Robertson. Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty. Ltd.
Distribution and habitat
Restricted to areas from around and south of Mt. Baw Baw, the Mornington Peninsula, Mud Island and onto the Bellarine Peninsula. It utilises a wide range of habitats, from montane areas to grasslands and coastal heaths.
Biology
The Metallic Skink is active during the day and feeds on small invertebrates. Females give birth to 1-8 live young per litter.
Further Reading
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books.
Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. Reptiles of Australia. Princeton University Press.