Riyadh: Saudi Arabia is home to 11 distinct species of skinks, including the sandfish, spotted sand skink, and golden skink. These reptiles have adapted to the diverse environments of dunes, oases, and plains, characterized by their streamlined bodies and smooth, shiny scales.

According to Saudi Press Agency, these skinks can grow up to 14 centimeters in length, using their clawed limbs and pointed snouts to effectively navigate through loose sand. The sandfish, one of the most renowned skink species, is known for its ability to burrow up to 40 centimeters deep, a skill it uses to escape predators and the harsh desert heat.

Skinks play a crucial role in the ecosystem by detecting prey vibrations under the sand. They primarily feed on insects, arachnids, and plant matter, thereby regulating pest populations and maintaining ecological balance across the Arabian Peninsula.