between the posterior supraciliary scale and the parietal eye. The E. quoyii species group specifically shares four derived character states that separate it from other species within the Eulamprus genus. The first of which is a third pair of chin shields separated by five smaller scales. Secondly, E. quoyii do not have inguinal fat bodies in both males and females that is commonly seen in other Scincidae species. This is what causes the species slender, elongated appearance. The third character state is the single row of distal supradigital scales seen on E. quoyii as opposed to the usual two or more rows observed in other species. Lastly, each lamellae on the underside of the toes are grooved and divided at the base. Behaviour Breeding and reproduction When Eulamprus quoyii breed, male and females of the species mate in Spring and will give birth to up to nine babies per clutch in the Summer. Unlike many other reptile species, the Eastern Water Skink is a viviparous species and will give birth to live young following their long gestation periods. Due to the length of these gestation periods, it is common for female E. quoyii individuals to mate only once a year. Male individuals differ from the females in that they can be classified into two categories: Territorial/Resident males and Floater Males. Resident males are suspected to be more active over a longer period, producing clutches with a higher yield of offspring. Floater males are predicted to have larger home ranges and move greater distances while active, leading to fewer clutches and offspring per year. Sexual selection in the E. quoyii species is not believed to have a direct correlation to performance and fitness traits such as bite force or speed as it does in other lizard species. Previous research has shown that there does seem to be a correlation between SVL and sexual selection in E. quoyii, however, due to the adoption of alternate reproductive tactics (ART) in the species, there is the chance that specific performance traits are correlated with other unmeasured behavioural, morphological or physiological traits. Nesting Depending on the urban landscape and habitat, the nesting habits of the eastern water skink will change from area to area. When found in a highly urban areas including backyards or city parks, E. quoyii will often create nests in moist soil areas and under logs or rocks in the garden, Outside