Bridled skink

Description:

Medium size lizard that can reach 25 cm in length including the tail. Dark brown to olive green back on the surface of which three light colored longwise stripes are located. The middle stripe is wider, less intense and runs along the spine while the other two are more intense and lie across it. On the lateral surface of the body two more pale white longwise stripes are visible that separate the dark dorsal surface from the lighter abdomen.

Basic biology:

Widespread on the island without special preference although mainly located in areas with rich vegetation coverage of low shrubs and grasses. Feeds mainly with terrestrial invertebrates such as insects and snails. Reproduce takes place during spring and summer and females lay usually from 3-6 eggs.

Distribution at Cyprus:

From the coast up to the high peaks of Troodos mountain.

Global distribution:

North Africa, Middle East, Cyprus, southern and eastern Turkey.

Condition:

Not so common

Protection status:

• Protected by the Bern Convention (Annex III) 

Map of confirmed presence: