The Monkey Tailed Skink (Corucia zebrata), also known as the Solomon Island Skink, is the largest skink species in the world, with adults often reaching up to 32 inches (81 cm) in length. This arboreal species is notable for its prehensile tail, which it uses to grip branches while navigating the dense rainforests of the Solomon Islands. The tail functions almost like a fifth limb, providing the skink with excellent balance and stability in its tree-dwelling habitat. Unlike many other skink species, Monkey Tailed Skinks are primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Their slow, deliberate movements and social nature are also unique, as they tend to live in family groups, a behavior that is rare among reptiles.

In addition to their impressive size and social behavior, Monkey Tailed Skinks are fascinating for their reproductive method. They are ovoviviparous, meaning the females give birth to live young after developing eggs internally, which is unusual among reptiles. The gestation period lasts about six to eight months, and typically, only one offspring is born at a time. These skinks are also known for their long lifespans, living up to 20 to 30 years in captivity with proper care. Their strong bonds with their offspring and tendency to form small, stable social groups have earned them the nickname "prehistoric monkeys," reflecting both their ancient lineage and their communal nature.