The Herpetological Bulletin
The Herpetological Bulletin is a quarterly publication in English. It includes full-length papers, natural history notes, book reviews, and other items of general herpetological interest. Emphasis is placed on natural history and conservation as well as captive care that includes breeding, husbandry, veterinary, and behavioural aspects.
03. Anti-predator tail displays by three semi-fossorial skinks Chalcides spp. across the Mediterranean Basin
13 downloads
Open Access
https://doi.org/10.33256/hb176.1216
AUTHORS: TAXIARCHIS DANELIS, ARISTEA PARASKEVOPOULOU, VIVIANA CITTADINO, PETROS STEFANOU & D. JAMES HARRIS
ABSTRACT: We report seven opportunistic observations of conspicuous tail-display behaviours in three semi-fossorial skink species (Chalcides ocellatus, Chalcides bedriagai and Chalcides montanus) from Greece, Portugal and Morocco. There were three categories of tail display - tail raised, curling with basal wagging and vigorous horizontal wiggling with tip vibration. These occurred most often when escape was constrained or during brief handling. We suggest that these displays are consistent with an anti-predator, tail-redirecting function.
Download Access:
The latest 4 issues can be downloaded when logged in as a BHS member.
Older issues are available for public download
Submissions:
For further information and submission guidelines see our Instructions to Authors - The Herpetological Bulletin
