Scincella lateralis                                                 Photo Fiona Sunquist ©

These small beautiful lizards are common in many parts of Florida.   They are coppery brown on the back and sides with a wide dark stripe on the upper part of their sides. 

Adult ground skinks are about 5 inches (13 cm) long, their legs are small and they move quickly in a snake-like winding motion.  They are quite common on lawns and around houses.  If pursued they will take to the water to escape if they have to, but usually dive under the leaf litter.

These bright-eyed little predators chase and catch insects, spiders, and various other invertebrates.  They in turn become food for many species of snakes.

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