Western Skink
(Eumeces skiltonianus)
These nongame lizards inhabit submontane zones. Although found in drier areas, they prefer rocky, well-vegetated areas by streams. This secretive species is insectivorous and diurnal, active at air temperatures of 87-93°F. They remain fossorial during dry months. Breeding occurs from May to June, after which 2 to 6 eggs are laid. Females tend the eggs and hatching occurs from July to August. Only the Great Basin subspecies (E.s. utahensis) inhabits southeastern Utah. It is restricted to the Tavaputs Plateau. http://wildlife.utah.gov/pdf/reptile.pdf