The five-lined skink inhabits humid woodlands under decaying leaves, logs and stumps. It is sometimes seen basking on stumps or the lower parts of trees. These animals are diurnal, active mostly during the day, and eat a diet of insects, larvae, spiders, crustaceans, lizards and even small mice. Juveniles are brightly colored with painted tails. The coloration fades in males but not in females.
Most skinks have the ability to rejuvenate their tails.
The bright coloration of the tail attracts predators to the break-away appendage, aiding in escape. The five-lined skink mates in early spring and the female will lay a clutch of four to 15 eggs. She tends to them until they hatch in mid- to late summer.