Blue-tailed lizards, commonly referring to the juvenile American five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus), are not poisonous. They pose no toxic threat to humans through ingestion or touch. Their vibrant blue tail serves as a defense mechanism, not a warning of toxicity.
Clarifying Toxicity: Poisonous vs. Venomous
Understanding the distinction between “poisonous” and “venomous” is important. An animal is poisonous if it contains toxins harmful when ingested or absorbed through contact, such as certain frogs or plants. These toxins are typically a passive defense.
Conversely, a creature is venomous if it actively injects toxins, usually through a bite or sting. Snakes, spiders, and scorpions are examples of venomous animals. Blue-tailed lizards, including the five-lined skink, do not possess fangs or stingers to inject venom, nor do they secrete harmful toxins through their skin.
Identifying the Blue-Tailed Lizard
The term “blue-tailed lizard” most often refers to the juvenile American five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus), a common lizard in eastern North America. Juveniles are distinctively dark brown to black with five prominent white or yellowish stripes. Their most striking feature is a bright, iridescent blue tail.
This vibrant blue tail can measure approximately 4.9 to 8.5 inches in total length, including the body. The blue coloration is a defensive adaptation, designed to draw a predator’s attention away from the lizard’s body towards its expendable tail. As these skinks mature, the blue tail color typically fades, and the body stripes may become less distinct, often turning a uniform brownish color. These ground-dwelling lizards prefer moist, wooded areas with plenty of cover, such as under logs, rocks, or loose bark, and are frequently found in gardens and forest edges.
Interacting Safely with Lizards
Blue-tailed lizards, like the American five-lined skink, are generally shy and will flee when approached. Their primary defense involves detaching their bright blue tail, a process called autotomy. The detached tail wiggles, creating a distraction that allows the lizard to escape. While the tail regenerates, new growth may be shorter and lack the original vibrant blue.
Though not aggressive, these skinks may bite if cornered or handled. A bite from a five-lined skink is typically minor, causing only a slight pinch. It is not venomous and poses no serious harm; cleaning the area with soap and water is advisable. Observe these lizards from a distance, as handling can cause stress and may lead to a defensive bite or tail autotomy. These skinks play a beneficial role by consuming insects and other invertebrates, helping control pest populations.