A small, elusive reptile that contributes to the rich tapestry of wildlife in Southeast Asia. Its range includes a variety of habitats within the region, from the Indonesian islands to parts of the Philippines, Malaysia, and possibly Brunei and Singapore, illustrating its adaptability to diverse tropical environments.

Measuring approximately 8 to 11 centimeters (3 to 4 inches) from snout to vent, the sunda striped skink is a delicate creature. It boasts a sleek, elongated body with smooth scales that glisten in the dappled sunlight of its forest home. The dorsal surface of this skink is characterized by distinctive longitudinal stripes that can vary in color from earthy browns to soft grays. These stripes not only provide an attractive visual pattern but also serve as excellent camouflage, breaking up the skink’s outline among the leaf litter, bark, and underbrush of the forest floor.

The sunda striped skink is diurnal, meaning it is active during the day when it can be found basking on rocks, logs, or leaves, absorbing the heat necessary for its ectothermic metabolism. Despite their small size, these skinks are known for their agility and quick reflexes, which are vital for capturing a wide array of prey, such as beetles, termites, and other small invertebrates that make up their diet.

Little is known about the specific breeding behaviors and social structures of the sunda striped skink due to their secretive nature and the challenges of studying them in dense vegetation. However, like many skinks, they are likely to be oviparous, laying eggs that they conceal in protected locations within their environment.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Cambodia

2017

Indonesia

2017

Sumatera

Laos

2017

Malaysia

2017

Sarawak, Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia

Myanmar

2017

Singapore

2017

Thailand

2017

Vietnam

2017