The rainbow skink (Trachylepis margaritifera) is a species of Afro-Malagasy mabuya or skink in the subfamily Lygosominae.
Mabuya quinquetaeniata margaritifera, formerly a subspecies of Trachylepis quinquetaeniata (the five-lined mabuya, also known as the rainbow skink), was elevated to full species in 1998 (as Trachylepis margaritifera).
T. margaritifera is a medium-sized lizard reaching a length of about 20 centimetres (7.9 in). The coloration of this species is quite variable, depending on the gender and the age. The scales are glossy, with metallic reflections. The basic colour is usually olive-brown or dark brown, sometimes with pearly whitish spots and with three light yellow-orange longitudinal stripes running from the head to the electric blue tail. These stripes may fade and become indistinct in the adults.
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The head shows a pointed snout and clearly visible ears holes. Just behind the ear opening, there are some black spots. Legs are dark brown, short and strong, with relatively long toes. The flanks are mainly yellowish and the underside of the body is whitish.
It is found in southern Africa, from KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa to southern Malawi; isolated populations occur in central to southeastern Tanzania and southern Kenya. It is found in rocky and mountainous regions of these countries.
Rainbow skinks are small, iridescent lizards known for their metallic sheen in bright light, often called "plague skinks" in places like New Zealand where they're invasive, outcompeting natives by eating invertebrates, while species like the African Rainbow Skink (Trachylepis quinquetaeniata) show distinct male/female coloring, with males getting vibrant stripes and spots for breeding in savannahs. They have long bodies, short limbs, and can lose and regrow their tails for defense.
Key Facts
Appearance: Shiny, iridescent bodies (brown/grey with stripes in juveniles, brighter in males), long bodies, short legs, and a long tail.
Size: Typically 3-4 cm (nose to hind legs) for the common invasive type, but some African species reach up to 20 cm.
Diet: Invertebrates like insects, spiders, termites, and sometimes even fruit.
Habitat: Native to Australia/Africa, but invasive in New Zealand, Hawaii, etc., found in gardens, forests, and rocky areas.
Behavior: Diurnal (active during the day), basks in the sun, and can be gregarious.
Defense: Can shed their tail (autotomy) for escape, with the tail regenerating.
Reproduction: Some lay eggs, others give birth to live young; males often display bright colors during mating season.
