Broad Headed Skink | Congaree National Park (S.C.)

Eumeces laticeps
• Diurnal reptile
• 14 - 21.6 cm (5.5 - 8.5 inches)
• Black or brown skink, adults may be uniform brown
• Five narrow light stripes including dorsal stripe along fourth or fifth scale rows counting from middle of back
• Stripes fade with age
• A predator
• Blue or gray tail
• Red-orange head in breeding male
• Juveniles have brilliant striping and bright blue or purple tail
• Habitats include moist woods and grassy areas