Nest distribution, site selection, and brooding in the five-lined skink (Eumeces fasciatus)

Abstract

I studied nest site selection and brooding behaviour in a population of Eumeces fasciatus at Point Pelee National Park, Ontario, Canada, in 1990, 1991, and 1992. Females preferred large, moderately decayed logs as nest sites. Multiple and communal nests were common in all years even though suitable nest sites were not limited. Soil moisture appeared to be an important physical factor. Soil moisture was higher at nests than at other sites or in the ambient environment. Females varied brooding position according to the moisture level. Brooding positions with high body to egg contact were observed with lower moisture levels, and low-contact positions were observed with higher moisture levels. Females did not space eggs or vary cavity size to control moisture, but they may have moved nests vertically. The woody debris that female skinks select as nest sites provide a relatively constant microclimate for egg development. The aggregated pattern of nest distribution suggests a possible response to predation pressures.