Blue-Tongued Skinks as Pets: Key Facts You Need to Know

Blue-Tongued Skinks are native to Australia and are known for their unique blue tongue. Over the years, their hardy nature and ease of care have made them increasingly popular as pets. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these fascinating reptiles, from their behavior and care requirements to the different species you can choose from.

Quick Reference Table: Blue-Tongued Skink Facts

Fact	Details
Scientific Name	Tiliqua spp.
Size	12-24 inches (30-60 cm) depending on species
Lifespan	15-20 years with proper care
Temperament	Generally docile and easy to handle
Diet	Omnivorous
Native Habitat	Australia

How Are Blue-Tongued Skinks as Pets?

Blue-Tongued Skinks make great pets for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts. They are generally easy to care for and have a docile temperament, which makes them an excellent choice for those new to keeping reptiles.

Pros and Cons of Blue-Tongued Skinks

Pros:

• Hardy and adaptable to various environments
• Docile and easy to handle
• Easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners

Cons:

• Can be expensive to purchase and set up proper housing
• Require a large enclosure
• May have specific dietary needs depending on the species

Blue-Tongued Skink Behavior and Temperament

Blue-Tongued Skinks are generally docile and easy to handle. They are not known to be aggressive and typically tolerate handling well. With regular interaction, they can become quite tame and even learn to recognize their caretakers.

How Much Do Blue-Tongued Skinks Cost?

The initial cost of a Blue-Tongued Skink can range from $150 to $500, depending on the species and availability. In addition to the cost of the skink itself, you’ll need to invest in a proper enclosure, lighting, heating, and other supplies. Ongoing expenses include food and potential vet visits.

Blue-Tongued Skink Lifespan: Time and Commitment

With proper care, Blue-Tongued Skinks can live for 15-20 years in captivity. As a pet owner, you’ll need to be prepared for this long-term commitment, ensuring that your skink receives the proper care and attention throughout its life.

Blue-Tongued Skink Size

Depending on the species, Blue-Tongued Skinks can grow to be between 12 and 24 inches (30-60 cm) in length. This size makes them easy to handle but also requires a relatively large enclosure to ensure their comfort and well-being.

Blue-Tongued Skink Species

There are several species of Blue-Tongued Skinks, each with its distinct characteristics and care requirements.

Northern Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia)

The Northern Blue-Tongued Skink is the most popular and widely available species in the pet trade. They are known for their bright orange and brown bands and can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) in length.

Eastern Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides)

Eastern Blue-Tongued Skinks are similar in appearance to the Northern species but have a slightly smaller size, reaching up to 20 inches (50 cm) in length. They are also found in the pet trade, but lesscommonly than their Northern counterparts.

Shingleback Skink (Tiliqua rugosa)

Shingleback Skinks have a unique appearance, with a short, wide body and a stubby tail. Their scales are rough and give them a pinecone-like appearance. They are less commonly available in the pet trade and can grow up to 16 inches (40 cm) in length.

Other Species

There are several other species of Blue-Tongued Skinks, such as the Centralian Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua multifasciata) and the Indonesian Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua gigas), but these are less commonly found in the pet trade.

Blue-Tongued Skink Colors, Looks and Appearances

Blue-Tongued Skinks have a distinctive look, with their characteristic blue tongue and banded coloration. The colors can vary depending on the species, but generally include various shades of brown, tan, and orange. Their size and body shape can also differ among species, as mentioned above.

Blue-Tongued Skink Care Guide

Proper care is essential for the health and well-being of your Blue-Tongued Skink. In this section, we’ll cover essential aspects of their care, from habitat setup to diet and nutrition.

Blue-Tongued Skink Habitat: Tank and Housing

Creating a comfortable and appropriate habitat for your Blue-Tongued Skink is crucial for its long-term health and happiness.

Appropriate Blue-Tongued Skink Tank Size

Adult Blue-Tongued Skinks need an enclosure measuring at least 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 12 inches tall. A larger enclosure is always better to provide ample space for your skink to move and explore.

Types of Enclosures

Glass terrariums, PVC enclosures, and wooden vivariums can all be suitable housing options for Blue-Tongued Skinks. The key is to ensure proper ventilation, heat, and humidity control.

Substrate Options

Choose a substrate that is easy to clean, retains humidity, and allows your skink to burrow. Suitable options include cypress mulch, coconut coir, and aspen shavings. Avoid substrates with small particles, like sand, as they can cause impaction if ingested.

Heating and Lighting Requirements

Provide a basking spot with a temperature of 95-100°F (35-38°C) and a cooler side with temperatures around 75-80°F (24-27°C). Use a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter for heat and a UVB light to support your skink’s vitamin D synthesis and overall health.

Humidity and Temperature Control

Regularly monitor the temperature and humidity in the enclosure using a digital thermometer and hygrometer. Blue-Tongued Skinks generally require a humidity level of 40-60%, which can be maintained by misting the enclosure and using a suitable substrate.

Furnishings and Decorations

Include hiding spots, branches or logs for climbing, and a water dish in your skink’s enclosure. These will help your skink feel secure and provide enrichment.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Spot clean the enclosure daily, removing any waste or uneaten food. Perform a deep clean and replace the substrate every 4-6 weeks.

Blue-Tongued Skink Food: Diet and Nutrition

Blue-Tongued Skinks are omnivorous and need a balanced diet of proteins, vegetables, and fruits to thrive.

Feeding Frequency and Schedule

Feed your Blue-Tongued Skink every 2-3 days, adjusting the amount and frequency based on its age, size, and activity level.

What do Blue-Tongued Skinks Eat?

Offer a mix of protein sources, such as insects and lean meats, vegetables like collard greens, squash, and bell peppers, and occasional fruit like berries and melon. Adjust the ratios based on the specific dietary needs of your skink’s species.

Blue-Tongued Skink Treats

Occasionally offer treats like mealworms, waxworms, or small pieces of fruit to provide variety and enrichment.

Foods to Avoid

Not all foods are suitable for Blue-Tongued Skinks. Avoid feeding them avocados, rhubarb, and onion as these can be toxic. Additionally, limit high-oxalate foods like spinach and beet greens, as they can interfere with calcium absorption.

Supplements and Vitamins

Blue-Tongued Skinks require proper vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and vitamin D3. Dust their food with a calcium supplement twice a week and provide a multivitamin once a week to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Hydration

Provide a shallow water dish for your Blue-Tongued Skink to drink from and occasionally soak in. Clean and refill the dish daily to maintain proper hygiene.

Handling and Socialization

Taming and Bonding

Blue-Tongued Skinks can be quite friendly with proper handling and bonding. Start by offering treats from your hand and gradually increase contact over time.

Safe Handling Techniques

When handling your skink, use both hands to support their body, and avoid grabbing their tail. Limit handling to 15-20 minutes per session to minimize stress.

Signs of Stress and Illness

Watch for signs of stress and illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and labored breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a reptile veterinarian.

Introducing Blue-Tongued Skinks to Other Pets

Introduce your skink to other pets gradually and under supervision. Keep in mind that some animals, like cats and dogs, may view your skink as prey, so take precautions to ensure their safety.

Health and Wellness

Common Health Issues

Blue-Tongued Skinks can suffer from respiratory infections, metabolic bone disease, and parasites. Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian can help detect and treat these issues early.

Signs of a Healthy Blue-Tongued Skink

Healthy Blue-Tongued Skinks are alert, active, and have a good appetite. They should have clear eyes, smooth skin, and a full, rounded tail.

Preventative Care

Keep your skink’s enclosure clean and maintain proper temperature and humidity levels. Provide a nutritious diet and schedule regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being.

Finding a Reptile Veterinarian

Locate a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles, specifically Blue-Tongued Skinks. Ask for recommendations from fellow reptile owners or local reptile clubs.

Breeding and Reproduction

Determining Gender

Male and female Blue-Tongued Skinks have subtle differences, such as males having wider heads and larger femoral pores. Consult an expert if you’re unsure about your skink’s gender.

Mating Behavior and Courtship

During courtship, male skinks may nudge, chase, or bite the female’s tail. Mating usually occurs in spring and lasts for 15-30 minutes.

Gravidity and Egg-laying

Blue-Tongued Skinks are live-bearers and give birth to 10-20 live young after a gestation period of 100-150 days.

Incubation and Hatching

Since Blue-Tongued Skinks give birth to live young, there is no egg incubation period.

Caring for Hatchlings

Provide hatchlings with a separate enclosure and offer small, nutritious meals. They will grow rapidly and reach adulthood within 18-24 months.

Are Blue-Tongued Skinks Legal?

Before acquiring a Blue-Tongued Skink, check your local laws and regulations to ensure they are legal to keep as pets in your area.

Popular Names for Blue-Tongued Skinks

Looking for a fun and interesting name for your new pet? Some popular options include Blueberry, Stitch, Smurf, Cobalt, and Sapphire.

Conclusion: Should You Own Blue-Tongued Skinks as Pets?

Blue-Tongued Skinks can make fascinating and rewarding pets for responsible owners who are committed to providing proper care. With their unique appearance, friendly disposition, and relatively easy care requirements, these captivating reptiles can bring joy and companionship to your home. Just remember to invest time and effort into their well-being, and you’ll have a happy, healthy Blue-Tongued Skink to share your life with.

FAQ for Pet Blue-Tongued Skinks

Q: Are Blue-Tongued Skinks good pets?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks are generally considered good pets due to their docile nature, ease of care, and unique appearance.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat grapes?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat grapes occasionally as a treat. Remove the skin and seeds before feeding them to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat bananas?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat bananas in moderation. Make sure to remove the peel and cut the banana into small pieces.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat strawberries?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat strawberries occasionally as a treat. Make sure to remove the leaves and hull before feeding them to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat apples?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat apples in moderation. Remove the skin and seeds, and cut the apple into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat spinach?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat spinach in small amounts. However, it should not be a large part of their diet due to its high oxalate content, which can interfere with calcium absorption.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat tomatoes?

A: It is not recommended to feed tomatoes to Blue-Tongued Skinks, as they are high in oxalates and can cause digestive issues.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat carrots?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat carrots. Make sure to peel and cut the carrots into small pieces before feeding them to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat cucumbers?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat cucumbers occasionally as a treat. Remove the skin and seeds, and cut the cucumber into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat watermelon?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat watermelon occasionally as a treat. Remove the rind and seeds, and cut the watermelon into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat broccoli?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat broccoli in moderation. Make sure to steam or blanch the broccoli to soften it, and chop it into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat blueberries?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat blueberries occasionally as a treat. Make sure to remove any stems and wash the berries before feeding them to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat celery?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat celery in moderation. Make sure to chop the celery into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat cabbage?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat cabbage in moderation. Make sure to chop the cabbage into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat cilantro?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat cilantro in moderation. Make sure to chop the cilantro into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat kale?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat kale in moderation. Make sure to chop the kale into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat blackberries?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat blackberries occasionally as a treat. Make sure to remove any stems and wash the berries before feeding them to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat oranges?

A: It is not recommended to feed oranges to Blue-Tongued Skinks, as the high citrus content can cause digestive issues.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat avocados?

A: No, avocados are toxic to Blue-Tongued Skinks and should not be fed to them.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat corn?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat corn in moderation. Make sure to cook the corn and cut it into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: Can Blue-Tongued Skinks eat asparagus?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks can eat asparagus in moderation. Make sure to cook the asparagus and cut it into small pieces before feeding it to your skink.

Q: How often do Blue-Tongued Skinks eat?

A: Adult Blue-Tongued Skinks typically eat every 2-3 days, while juveniles may eat daily or every other day.

Q: How long do Blue-Tongued Skinks live?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks can live up to 15-20 years in captivity with proper care.

Q: Where are Blue-Tongued Skinks native?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks are native to Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia.

Q: Are Blue-Tongued Skinks friendly?

A: Yes, Blue-Tongued Skinks are generally friendly and docile, making them suitable pets for reptile enthusiasts.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks bite?

A: While Blue-Tongued Skinks can bite if they feel threatened, they are not known to be aggressive and rarely bite when properly handled.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks like to be held?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks can become accustomed to being held and may enjoy the interaction, but it is essential to handle them gently and respect their boundaries.

Q: Are Blue-Tongued Skinks nocturnal?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks pee?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks excrete both solid waste and a white, chalky substance called urates, which are the equivalent of urine in reptiles.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks hibernate?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks from cooler regions may undergo a period of brumation, similar to hibernation, during colder months. However, this is not a true hibernation, and they may still be somewhat active during this time.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks make noise?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks are generally quiet pets, but they may occasionally make hissing or huffing noises when they feel threatened.

Q: Are Blue-Tongued Skinks venomous or poisonous?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks are neither venomous nor poisonous and are safe to handle with proper care.

Q: Are Blue-Tongued Skinks smart?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks are considered to be intelligent reptiles, capable of learning routines and recognizing their owners.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks need heat at night?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks require a temperature gradient in their enclosure, with a cooler side and a warmer side. They may need supplemental heat at night if the ambient temperature drops too low.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks lay eggs?

A: No, Blue-Tongued Skinks are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.

Q: Do Blue-Tongued Skinks smell?

A: Blue-Tongued Skinks themselves do not have a strong odor, but it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and clean their enclosure regularly to prevent unpleasant smells.