South-western Orange-tailed SliderScientific name: Lerista distinguenda

Meaning of name: The meaning of Lerista is not known. Distinguenda is Latin meaning needing to be distinguished. Referring to being distinguished from Lerista elegans.

Distribution: Throughout the southwest of Western Australia from Geraldton to near the South Australian border.

Description: A small (9cm) skink with 4 fingers and toes. Body colour olive-grey to silver-brown. There is a black stripe running from the side of the head to the base of the tail, bordered below by a white stripe. The tail usually has a red or orange tinge.

Notes: Shelters beneath leaf litter, logs and rocks. Feeds on small invertebrates.

References: Field Guide to the Reptiles and Frogs of the Perth Region. Brian Bush, Brad Maryan, Robert Browne-Cooper, David Robinson. 2010
Lizards of Western Australia I Skinks. GM Storr, LA Smith, RE Johnstone. 1999