🦎 General Info
The Blue-Tongue Skink (Tiliqua spp.) is a hardy, intelligent, and personable lizard native to Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. These reptiles are best known for their bright blue tongues, which they display as a defense mechanism to startle predators.
Blue-Tongue Skinks are terrestrial and diurnal, meaning they spend most of their time on the ground and are active during the day.
Adults reach 18–24 inches in length, depending on the species and locality, and can live 15–25 years or longer in captivity with proper care. Common species in the pet trade include:
Northern Blue-Tongue (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia) — the most common and beginner-friendly species.
Eastern Blue-Tongue (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides)
Indonesian Blue-Tongue (Tiliqua gigas) — needs higher humidity.
Merauke Blue-Tongue (Tiliqua gigas evanescens) — longer body and tail.
Enclosure
Size:
Juveniles: 20 gallon enclosure, or 2ft , 12 in , 12in, but grow fairly quickly so be prepared to upgrade.
Adults: Minimum 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft enclosure.
Larger is always better; provide as much horizontal space as possible.
Material: PVC or glass enclosures are ideal for maintaining heat and humidity, PVC enclosures are lightweight, durable, and excellent at holding consistent temperatures.
Substrate:
A deep, loose substrate (3–6 inches) allows natural burrowing behavior and humidity regulation.
Recommended options: cypress mulch, coconut fiber, organic topsoil, or bioactive mix.
Avoid cedar or pine — they contain oils that are toxic to reptiles. Some pine and cedar products are in fact safe for reptile use, often times sealed enclosures but make sure you do your research on specific products to ensure its safe for your pet.
Décor: Provide logs, cork flats, rocks, and hides for security, Blue-Tongues enjoy burrowing and exploring, so create a naturalistic setup. Include multiple hides—one on the cool side and one near the basking area.
Temperature & Lighting
Basking Spot: 95–100°F
Ambient Temperature (Day): 75–85°F
Cool Side: 70–75°F
Night Temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C) — can safely drop to 60°F short-term.
Heating: Use a basking bulb or ceramic heat emitter to create a gradient, regulate heat sources with a thermostat and check with a digital thermometer.
Lighting: UVB lighting Is essential for Blue-Tongues to metabolize calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease, use a T5 HO 10–12% UVB tube, positioned 12–18 inches from the basking area. Replace bulbs every 6–12 months, per manufacturer instructions.
Light cycle: Provide 12–14 hours of light daily to mimic their natural photoperiod.
Note: Even though Blue-Tongues are ground-dwelling, UVB is still essential for their overall health and bone strength.
Humidity & Water
Humidity:
Australian species: 35–45%
Indonesian/Merauke species: 60–80% Use a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity.
How to Maintain Proper Humidity:
Mist lightly once daily (especially for Indonesian species).
Provide a humid hide with damp sphagnum moss during shedding.
Ensure good airflow to prevent mold or respiratory issues.
Water: Always keep a shallow water dish with clean, fresh water, Blue-Tongues often soak in their water dish, so clean it daily to prevent bacterial buildup.
Diet
Type: Omnivorous — Blue-Tongue Skinks eat a balanced mix of animal protein, vegetables, and fruit.
Staple Foods:
Protein (40–50%): Lean cooked meats (chicken, turkey, ground beef), snails, roaches, crickets, mealworms, or high-quality canned dog food (as an occasional base).
Vegetables (40%): Collard greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens, squash, carrots, bell peppers.
Fruits (10%): Berries, mango, papaya, melon, apple, and banana (occasional treat).
Supplements:
Calcium powder: 3–4 times per week.
Calcium with D3: Once weekly if UVB is provided; twice weekly if not.
Multivitamin: Once weekly.
Feeding Schedule:
Juveniles: Feed daily (small portions).
Adults: Feed 3–4 times per week.
Avoid: Citrus fruits, onions, avocado, rhubarb, and processed or seasoned meats.
Behavior & Handling
Temperament: Blue-Tongue Skinks are generally calm, intelligent, and docile, especially with regular, gentle handling. They rarely bite unless threatened.
Handling Tips:
Start slowly—allow your skink to get used to your scent and movements.
Support the entire body, especially the belly and tail.
Avoid grabbing them from above, as this triggers a defensive response.
Handle a few times per week to maintain trust and socialization.
If your skink is hissing, puffing up or thrashing around when trying to pick them up, give them some space and just work with them slowly every day.
Enrichment:
Provide opportunities to dig, explore, and bask.
Rearrange enclosure décor periodically to encourage natural curiosity.
Offer supervised floor time in a safe, enclosed space.
Health & Lifespan
Lifespan: 15–25 years in captivity with proper care.
Common Health Issues:
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): From lack of UVB or calcium.
Respiratory Infections: Caused by low temps or excessive humidity.
Parasites: Regularly check feces and consult a reptile vet if you notice runny or foul-smelling droppings.
Obesity: Overfeeding or too many fatty foods.
Shedding Problems: Due to low humidity; ensure proper moisture levels.
Prevention:
Maintain correct temperature and humidity gradients.
Provide balanced nutrition with proper supplements.
Keep the enclosure clean and spot-clean waste daily.
Schedule annual veterinary checkups with an experienced reptile vet.
Signs of Illness:
Lethargy or lack of appetite
Wheezing or open-mouth breathing
Swollen limbs or jaw deformities
Retained shed, especially around toes or tail
Final Note:
Blue-Tongue Skinks are often called the “dogs of the reptile world” due to their calm demeanor and intelligence. They recognize their keepers, enjoy routine, and can even learn feeding schedules.
With a proper setup, balanced diet, and regular gentle handling, your Blue-Tongue Skink can live a long, healthy, and engaging life. They make excellent pets for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts, offering personality, charm, and ease of care.