Marie-Galante skink facts for kids
Capitellum mariagalantae, also known as the Marie-Galante skink, is a small lizard found only on the island of Marie-Galante in Guadeloupe. It is a type of skink, which are common lizards known for their smooth, shiny scales. This particular skink was first described by scientists in 2012.
Quick facts for kids Marie-Galante skink |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Capitellum
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| Species: |
mariagalantae
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Contents
What is a Skink?
Skinks are a large group of lizards found all over the world. They are known for their smooth, shiny scales that often look like they are made of glass. Most skinks have long, slender bodies and short legs. Some skinks even have no legs at all, looking more like snakes!
Skinks are usually quite shy. They often hide under rocks, logs, or in leaf litter. This helps them stay safe from predators. Their smooth scales help them move easily through tight spaces.
Skink Features
Skinks have several interesting features. Many skinks can drop their tails if a predator grabs them. This is called autotomy. The tail wiggles for a while, distracting the predator. This gives the skink a chance to escape. A new tail will slowly grow back.
Their eyes are usually small and have movable eyelids. Some skinks even have a clear scale over their eyes. This acts like a built-in goggle, protecting their eyes while they burrow.
Where Does the Marie-Galante Skink Live?
The Marie-Galante skink is special because it lives only in one place. It is found on the island of Marie-Galante, which is part of Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe is a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea. This makes the Marie-Galante skink an endemic species. Endemic means it is native to and found only in that specific area.
This skink lives in the natural habitats of the island. It likely prefers areas with plenty of hiding spots. These can include forests, rocky areas, or places with lots of plants. Its small size helps it move through dense vegetation.
What Do Skinks Eat?
Most skinks are insectivores. This means they mainly eat insects and other small invertebrates. A skink's diet might include:
- Insects like crickets and beetles
- Spiders
- Worms
- Slugs
They use their keen eyesight to spot their prey. Then they quickly snatch it with their jaws. The Marie-Galante skink likely has a similar diet. It helps control insect populations in its habitat.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Like other reptiles, skinks reproduce by laying eggs. Some skinks, however, give birth to live young. This is called viviparity. The mother carries the eggs inside her body until they hatch. This gives the young a better chance of survival.
Young skinks look like smaller versions of the adults. They grow by shedding their skin as they get bigger. This process is called ecdysis. Skinks can live for several years in the wild.
Conservation Status
The Marie-Galante skink is listed as "Critically Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means it faces a very high risk of extinction in the wild. Its small habitat makes it vulnerable. Threats can include:
- Habitat loss due to human development
- Introduction of new predators
- Climate change
Protecting its habitat is very important. This helps ensure the survival of this unique skink.
See also
In Spanish: Capitellum mariagalantae para niños
