Northern Blue-Tongued Skinks

Northern Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia)

Overview

Blue-Tongue Skinks are popular pet lizards known for their distinctive blue tongues, docile nature, and relatively easy care requirements. Native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, these skinks are ground-dwelling reptiles that adapt well to captivity, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adult Blue-Tongue Skinks typically reach 18 to 24 inches in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live for 15-20 years.
• Appearance: Blue-Tongue Skinks have a stout, elongated body with smooth, shiny scales. Their coloration varies by species but generally includes shades of brown, gray, and tan, often with banding patterns. Their most distinctive feature is their bright blue tongue, which they display as a defense mechanism.

Housing

• Enclosure: A secure, spacious enclosure is essential. A 40-55 gallon tank is suitable for an adult Blue-Tongue Skink.
• Substrate: Use substrates like cypress mulch, aspen shavings, or coconut coir. These substrates help maintain humidity and provide a naturalistic environment. Avoid loose substrates for juveniles to prevent impaction.
• Hides: Provide multiple hiding spots to help them feel secure. Include one hide on the warm side and one on the cool side of the enclosure.
• Enrichment: Blue-Tongue Skinks enjoy exploring and burrowing. Include branches, rocks, and tunnels to mimic their natural habitat.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature gradient with a basking spot of 95-100°F and a cool side around 75-85°F.
• Heating: Use a combination of basking lamps and under-tank heaters to achieve the desired temperature gradient. Avoid direct contact with heat rocks to prevent burns.
• Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 40-60%. Provide a shallow water dish and mist the enclosure as needed. Higher humidity may be required for certain species, such as the Indonesian Blue-Tongue Skink.

Lighting

• UVB Lighting: Blue-Tongue Skinks require UVB lighting to synthesize vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. Provide UVB lighting for 10-12 hours a day.
• Light Cycle: Maintain a regular 12-hour light/dark cycle to simulate natural conditions.
• Lighting Options: Use fluorescent UVB bulbs or mercury vapor bulbs to provide both heat and UVB light.

Feeding

• Diet: Blue-Tongue Skinks are omnivorous and require a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits and proteins.
• Insects: Offer insects like crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements.
• Vegetables: Provide a variety of leafy greens (collard greens, mustard greens) and other vegetables (squash, bell peppers) daily.
• Fruits and Proteins: Offer fruits like berries and melons occasionally. Include lean proteins such as cooked chicken, boiled eggs, and high-quality dog food in moderation.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Blue-Tongue Skinks are generally docile and tolerate handling well. Support their body and avoid sudden movements. Regular handling helps them become more accustomed to human interaction.
• Behavior: They are primarily diurnal and active during the day. Blue-Tongue Skinks are known for their calm and curious nature. They use their blue tongue to ward off potential threats by displaying it when feeling threatened.

Health and Veterinary Care

• Common Issues: Monitor for respiratory infections, metabolic bone disease, and parasites. Ensure proper UVB lighting and a balanced diet to prevent health issues.
• Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian are essential to monitor their health and address any issues promptly.

Conclusion

Blue-Tongue Skinks are a captivating and manageable species that make excellent pets for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers. Their friendly nature, intriguing behaviors, and ease of care make them a beloved choice for reptile enthusiasts. With the right environment and care, Blue-Tongue Skinks can thrive and provide years of enjoyment to their keepers.