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These images illustrate a
species of the genus Eugongylus, probably Eugongylus rufescens.
English names include Brown Sheen Skink or Bar-lipped Sheen Skink.
The skink was found crossing a gravel track at dusk in the Gobe area of
Southern Highlands Province, at an elevation of less than 1000 metres. The
species is reportedly nocturnal.
This large skink measured 26cm in total length, comprising 11 cm
snout-to-vent, and a tail of 15 cm. Its flexible body and long, thick tail
moved in a sinuous, snake-like motion when trying to flee from disturbance.
Its body is medium to dark brown with faint, thin, regular transverse
banding. The scales are smooth, and iridescent under bright light. The
upper and lower lips are adorned with a series of vertical dark bands.
The species is known to feed upon large insects, such as crickets, and other
invertebrates, and is also recorded as taking other smaller lizards
including other skinks.
Eugongylus rufescens occurs in Queensland, Australia and may be
widespread in Papua New Guinea, occurring in various forest types.
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