Five-clawed Worm-skink
Anomalopus mackayi
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 26/03/2008
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Least Concern
Listed since: 13/06/2017
Population trend: Decreasing
Other names: Long-legged Worm-skink
Priority species? No
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derived from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Five-clawed Worm-skink is a burrowing skink which is characterised by three fingers and two toes and grows up to 27 cm long. The Five-clawed Worm-skink is known to occur in both remnant and non-remnant woodlands and grasslands. No information is available about the species' feeding behaviour in the wild; however, it is believed to feed on arthropods, such as white ants.
Threats
The Five-clawed Worm-skink has undergone decline in the past few decades due to land clearing, overgrazing, use of agricultural chemicals and feral species such as cats and foxes.
Quollity Conservation Hub's Overall Priority Score
Average life span:
Unknown
Number of young produced each year:
Unknown
Number of breeding events each year:
Unknown
Minimum sexual maturity age:
Unknown
Who is helping
Useful links for more detailed information on this species
DCCEEW - Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
SPRAT - DCCEEW Species Profile and Threats Database