Lizards of Virginia

Virginia Lizard Identification Guide

Scientific Name (Common Name)
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VA Distribution Photos
Plestiodon anthracinus anthracinus (Northern Coal Skink)
(formerly Eumeces anthracinus)
* All lizards native to Virginia in the genus Plestiodon have bright blue tails as juveniles/subadults.
Plestiodon fasciatus (Common Five-lined Skink)
(formerly Eumeces fasciatus)
* All lizards native to Virginia in the genus Plestiodon have bright blue tails as juveniles/subadults.
Plestiodon inexpectatus (Southeastern Five-lined Skink)
(formerly Eumeces inexpectatus)
* All lizards native to Virginia in the genus Plestiodon have bright blue tails as juveniles/subadults.
Plestiodon laticeps (Broad-headed Skink)
(formerly Eumeces laticeps)
* All lizards native to Virginia in the genus Plestiodon have bright blue tails as juveniles/subadults.
Virginia Wildlife Action Plan Rating Tier IV - Moderate Conservation Need - The species may be rare in parts of its range, particularly on the periphery. Populations of these species have demonstrated a significant declining trend or one is suspected which, if continued, is likely to qualify this species for a higher tier in the foreseeable future. Long-term planning is necessary to stabilize or increase populations.
Virginia Wildlife Action Plan Rating Tier II - Very High Conservation Need - Has a high risk of extinction or extirpation. Populations of these species are at very low levels, facing real threat(s), or occur within a very limited distribution. Immediate management is needed for stabilization and recovery.