Cape skink

Introduction: Cape skinks (Mabuya capensis) tame easily and would be more of a feature in gardens if they weren't preyed upon by domestic cats. They are a gentle sort of creature that dig tunnels in loose sand at the bases of bushes or boulders. Fallen aloe stems and dead trees are also favoured haunts.

Distribution: Absent from the Namib Desert and northern regions of Namibia.

Diet: Cape skinks hunt large insects in clearings and open sandy areas.

Colouring: There are pale stripes on a light brown body. Between the stripes there are some dark brown or black spots or short bars.

Breeding: Females can give birth to between 5 and 18 babies.

Size: Max SVL 135mm.