Welcome to Mill Mountain Zoo
Roanoke, Virginia
THANKS FOR VISITING REX, THE PRENHENSILE-TAILED SKINK!
Scientific Name: Corucia zebrata
Diet: Herbivorous. Eats most flowers, fruits, and vegetation it can find.
Fun Facts:
These reptiles are social creatures and live in small groups called "circuli."
This is the largest known skink!
Young skinks will stay with their parents for about 6 months after being born... a long time for a reptile!
Compare me to...
The Broad-headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps) is the largest Skink in Virginia. Adults of both species prefer to dwell high up in trees. However, this species differs from the Prehensile-tailed Skink because it feeds mainly on insects and still has the ability to break its tail off to distract predators.
STATUS: May become Threathened
How can I help?
If you decide to buy a Prehensile-tailed skink as a pet, be sure to find a reputable breeder.
This species is especially vulnerable to deforestation due to their preference for old growth trees. Be sure to buy sustainably harvested wood and Rainforest Alliance Certified products.
FAQ's:
1. Why is its tail so long?
These skinks have a strong prehensile tail -- meaning that it's capable of grasping. This tail helps them to maneuver through the tree canopies.