COSEWIC status report on the western skink, Eumeces skiltonianus, in Canada. In: COSEWIC assessment and status report on the western skink, Eumeces skiltonianus, in Canada

Publication Type:

Report

Authors:

Ovaska, K. E.; Engelstoft, C.

Source:

COSEWIC Assessment and Status Report, Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service, Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, Ottawa, ON, p.1-19 (2002)

ISBN:

0-662-75544-8

Call Number:

U02OVA01IDUS

Keywords:

Eumeces skiltonianus, Plestiodon skiltonianus, Western Skink

Abstract:

This status report for the western skink (Eumeces [Plestiodon] skiltonianus) in Canada summarizes the known biology and ecology of the species from studies conducted across its range, including the U.S. Distribution of the species and habitat features of those areas are described, as well as trends regarding and protection of habitat. The species’ reproduction, growth and survival, movements and home range, food habits, predation and predator defense, daily and seasonal activity, behavior, and vulnerability are included. Population sizes and trends are discussed, as well as limiting factors for the species. The authors conclude that the western skink in Canada is vulnerable because of its small geographic range centered in densely populated areas, the local distribution of populations, and increasing pressures on habitats through alteration and fragmentation associated with the activities of a growing human population. Ameliorating factors include some degree of tolerance to some human activities (such as logging) and certain life history characteristics (such as a small body size) that allow populations to persist in relatively small habitat patches. [This document is included with a species assessment summary for changing the status of the species in Canada to Special Concern.]

Notes:

ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology

Citation (CSE style): Ovaska KE (Renewable Resources Consulting Services Ltd., Sidney, BC, and Department of Forest Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC), Engelstoft C (Biology Graduate Program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC). 2002. COSEWIC status report on the western skink, Eumeces skiltonianus, in Canada. In: COSEWIC assessment and status report on the western skink, Eumeces skiltonianus, in Canada. Ottawa (ON): Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service, Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. p. 1-19.