Identification
A subspecies of the Coal Skink, Eumeces anthracinus, the Northern Coal Skink
closely resembles the Southern Coal Skink. The Northern has four light lines
that run down its body onto the tail, but they are absent from the top of the
head. There is also a dark stripe down the sides of the body, generally 2.5-4
scales wide. Rows of scales at the middle of the body usually number 25 or fewer.
The body color varies from brownish to greenish brown, and the belly color is
typically grey to bluish. Males develop reddish coloration on the sides of their
heads during the breeding season. Juveniles are similar in coloration to the
adults, but they have bright blue tails.
Distribution and Status
The range for this species is fragmented, and extends from western New York
to North Carolina and eastern Kentucky (US
distribution map; Midwest
distribution map). There are also isolated colonies in
Ohio and central Kentucky. In the Midwest, the Northern Coal Skink is found
only in Ohio, where it is considered a species of Special Interest.
Ecology
Northern Coal Skinks can be found in damp forested areas, and seek cover under
leaf litter, logs, boards, bark, or rocks. They can also be found in areas with
dryer conditions, such as on rocky hillsides, or in dead trees.
Threats and Management Issues
Due to their fragmented and often uncommon status, Northern Coal Skink populations
are vulnerable to loss of cover across their range. The use of pesticides in
forest pest control has also negatively impacted this species.
Resources
General reference guides and websites.
Links to more information on the Northern Coal Skink outside the Herp Center
Virginia Fish and Wildlife Services
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499