Skink #1 : Philippine Crocodile Skink
com.name : Gray's water skink
sci.name :
Tropidophorus Grayi
classification : Reptile
family : Skink
location or Origin:Rivers and Lakes of the Philippines
description : A highly secretive lizard. It is relatively common, but it is so hard to find that it is a rarely seen. They live by rivers and lakes, which gives them their name the 'water' skink. They are found only in the Philippines. Despite the warm habitat in the Philippines, they prefer relatively cool climates in the mountains. They are part of the Scincidae family or skinks which are a type of lizard
They have serrated scales (very spiky) which are grey-black in color. This makes them look like miniature crocodiles. They are fast and agile, but despite their looks and speed are harmless.
When they are threatened by predators this reptile hides in water. This shyness may be one of the reasons why so little is known about them. This aquatic behavior raises some questions to whether it is amphibious or not.
reference :
Gray's water skink - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Philippine Amphibian & Reptile Association (PARA) - Login