Silvascincus tryoni
# Silvascincus tryoni

Silvascincus tryoni, the Border Ranges blue-spectacled skink or forest skink, is a species of lizard in the family Scincidae. It is endemic to the McPherson Range bordering New South Wales and Queensland, Australia.

## Etymology

The specific name, tryoni, is in honor of English scientist Henry Tryon (1856–1943).

## Description

This species can grow to 104 mm (4.1 in) in snout–vent length. It has well-defined, dark transverse dorsal markings on light to mid-brown background.

## Reproduction

Silvascincus tryoni is viviparous. A female measuring 100 mm (3.9 in) in snout–vent length and 189 mm (7.4 in) in total length gave birth to five young measuring 33–35 mm (1.3–1.4 in) in snout–vent length.

## Habitat and conservation

Silvascincus tryoni occurs in highland closed subtropical rainforest at elevations of 760–1,100 m (2,490–3,610 ft) above sea level. Specimens have been found on logs and rocks, under decayed logs, and sunning at the base of a hollow giant stinging tree Dendrocnide excelsa. When disturbed, they seek refuge under rocks and logs.

Silvascincus tryoni might be at least locally common. Its range is small but coincides, perhaps entirely, with protected areas, including Lamington and Border Ranges National Parks. It is unlikely to be facing any major threats.

