What is Skink?

Why in the news?

• The researchers have named the new genus as 'Dravidoseps', a combination of the Sanskrit words 'Dravid' and ‘Seps'.
• This genus ‘Dravidoseps’ is distinct from the genus ‘Subdoluseps’, as it gives birth to its young—instead of laying eggs.
• All the five newly discovered species are from the state of Tamil Nadu, and have been named as:
  • Dravidoseps gingeeensis’ (from the Gingee Hills),
  • Dravidoseps jawadhuensis’ (Jawadhu Hills),
  • Dravidoseps kalakadensis’ (Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve),
  • Dravidoseps srivilliputhurensis’ (Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve)
  • Dravidoseps tamilnaduensis’ (Kolli, Pachaimalai and Yercaud Hills).

About Skink:

• Skink is the common name for the lizards that comprise the family Scincidae.
• It is typically smooth and shiny with small or rudimentary legs.
• It is a type of reptile that has been around since the time of the dinosaurs.
• They are mostly secretive ground dwellers or burrowers.
• Skinks are highly alert, agile and fast moving and actively forage for a variety of insects and small invertebrates. 
• Habitat: They can be found in a variety of habitats, from deserts to rainforests, and are well-known for their ability to camouflage with their surroundings. 
• Distribution: These are represented throughout most of the world but are especially diverse in Southeast Asia and its associated islands, the deserts of Australia, and the temperate regions of North America.