Cryptoblepharus virgatus

Cryptoblepharus virgatus
Cryptoblepharus virgatus (fence skink)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Sauria
Family: Scincidae
Genus: Cryptoblepharus
Species: C. virgatus'
Binomial name
Cryptoblepharus virgatus

The fence or snake-eyed Skink (Cryptoblepharus virgatus) is a skink commonly found in southern and eastern Australia. Its habitats include urban areas, woodlands and grasslands. Will often be seen on vertical surfaces such trees, fences and walls.

It is a relatively small, flat bodied skink of a silver-gray coloring. It has a distinct white stripe running along its body from the eye to the base of its tail. May grow up to be 10cm in length. Also sometimes called a snake-eyed skink because it lacks eyelids, instead having a translucent layer of scales covering its eyes similar to that of snakes.

Fence skinks may grow up to 10cm in length.

It is an active little lizard, and if threatened will often play dead to confuse the attacker.