I am not saying one is better than the other. I do feel that this is a situation where your obvious passion for these remarkable animals may cause you to come to somewhat emotional conclusions. I too agree that neonates need to be left with their parents and their groups in the wild, for protection. Do they stay together for "emotional" security? I do not believe so, at least not as we know it. I really don't know how much emotion they actually feel, but I can safely say that I do not feel it is logical to compare them on the same level as a human. However, I do feel my comparison to crocodilians (specifically Alligators) was a very logical comparison, and that it raised a good point. I agree that groups are a very rewarding way to keep them, but there are many risks in doing this also (especially when a baby is involved). We both know this. We actually know very little about the social dynamics of these skinks. I do believe that the social aspects boil down to a safety in numbers situation, and to protection of the neonates. I just feel that captivity throws a whole new spin on the situation, and that it is not absolutely necessary to keep a baby with its mother for 3 years. I do value your opinion, and respect your passion for Corucia. There is no debating that.

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