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Glite Dictionary
Eumeces skiltonianus

Eumeces skiltonianus

9.9
A small lizard with a bright blue tail that lives in grasslands of western North America
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Eumeces skiltonianus
  • The Eumeces skiltonianus is commonly spotted in grasslands across western North America.

Examples

  • The distinctive blue tail is a well-known feature of juvenile Eumeces skiltonianus.

  • The Eumeces skiltonianus often basks on rocks to regulate its body temperature.

  • Researchers observed the behavior of Eumeces skiltonianus in several California woodlands.

  • Look! A Eumeces skiltonianus!

  • The Eumeces skiltonianus is often found basking in the sun.

  • Juvenile Eumeces skiltonianus are easily recognized by their bright blue tails.

  • In warm weather, the Eumeces skiltonianus can often be seen sunbathing on rocks.

Synonyms

western skink
vsEumeces skiltonianus
  • US
8.6

A small lizard with smooth scales found in open areas of western North America

is the formal scientific species name used in taxonomy and technical contexts

Surface Forms

Eumeces skiltonianus singular
Eumeces skiltonianus plural

Morphology

Eumeces + skiltonianus

The genus name 'Eumeces' directly signals a group of lizards, so knowing that constituent gives a clear clue that the phrase names a lizard species. However, the specific epithet 'skiltonianus' is a Latinized proper/name-based form and does not convey the common-name sense 'western skink' to a B1 learner, so the full meaning is only partially predictable from the parts.

Etymology

Eumeces skiltonianus comes from a Greek part and a person's name: Eumeces probably means 'good' or 'well', and skiltonianus honors a collector named Skilton. Imagine a healthy little skink held by Mr. Skilton — that picture helps you remember why this name refers to the western skink.