How To Care Blue Tongue Skinks?

Blue Tongue Skinks (Tiliqua spp.) are one of the most popular pet lizards due to their friendly nature, intelligence, and ease of care. Known for their distinctive blue tongues, these reptiles are hardy, adaptable, and can develop strong bonds with their owners. They are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced reptile keepers.

Native to Australia, Indonesia, and parts of New Guinea, Blue Tongue Skinks thrive in a variety of environments, from arid deserts to humid forests. Their omnivorous diet and ability to tolerate handling make them unique compared to many other pet lizards. However, like all reptiles, they have specific care requirements, including proper housing, diet, heating, humidity, and regular health monitoring.

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Blue Tongue Skink care, ensuring that your pet lives a long, happy, and healthy life. Whether you are considering getting a skink or already own one, understanding their needs will help you build a strong, lasting relationship with your scaly companion.

1. Choosing the Right Blue Tongue Skink

There are several species of Blue Tongue Skinks, each with unique care requirements. The Northern Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia) is considered the best option for beginners due to its adaptability to different environments and overall hardiness. Other commonly kept species include the Indonesian Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua gigas), Eastern Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides), Irian Jaya Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua sp.), and Merauke Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua gigas evanescens).

Each species has specific temperature and humidity needs. For example, Indonesian and Merauke skinks require higher humidity levels compared to their Northern and Eastern counterparts. When selecting a skink, it is recommended to choose a captive-bred individual over a wild-caught one. Captive-bred skinks are generally healthier, less stressed, and easier to tame.

2. Housing & Enclosure Setup

Tank Size & Type

Blue Tongue Skinks require spacious enclosures to move around comfortably. The minimum recommended size is a 40-gallon (approximately 150 liters.) tank (36” x 18” x 18”), but a larger enclosure (48” x 24” x 18”) is preferable. A glass terrarium, PVC, or wooden enclosure works best, provided it has proper ventilation.

Substrate (Bedding)

The choice of substrate depends on the species. For Northern and Eastern Blue Tongue Skinks, a drier substrate such as aspen shavings, reptile carpet, or paper towels is ideal. For Indonesian, Merauke, and Halmahera skinks, which require higher humidity, coconut husk, cypress mulch, or a reptile-safe soil mix is recommended.

Avoid substrates like sand, pine, and cedar shavings, as these can cause respiratory issues or impaction if accidentally ingested. It’s also important to spot clean the enclosure daily and perform a deep clean every few weeks to prevent bacterial buildup.

Temperature & Heating

Being cold-blooded, Blue Tongue Skinks need a temperature gradient to regulate their body temperature. The basking area should be kept at 95-105°F (35-40°C), while the cooler side of the enclosure should range between 70-80°F (21-27°C). At night, temperatures can drop slightly but should not go below 65°F (18°C).

Heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, or deep heat projectors are the best options for maintaining warmth. Under-tank heat mats are not recommended because skinks rely on overhead heat for thermoregulation.

UVB Lighting

Providing UVB lighting (5.0 - 10.0 strength) is essential for proper calcium absorption and bone health. Without UVB exposure, skinks are at risk of developing Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), which causes weak bones and deformities. The light should be kept on for 10-12 hours a day to mimic natural daylight.

Humidity Requirements

Humidity levels vary depending on the species. Northern and Eastern Blue Tongue Skinks thrive at 30-40% humidity, while Indonesian, Merauke, and Halmahera skinks require 60-80% humidity. To maintain proper humidity, mist the enclosure as needed and provide a shallow water dish for drinking and moisture retention. A hygrometer (humidity gauge) should be used to monitor levels consistently.

Hides & Enrichment

Blue Tongue Skinks require at least two hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side—to help them feel secure. Other enrichment items like branches, rocks, tunnels, and logs can encourage natural behaviors such as burrowing and exploring.

3. Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous Diet

Blue Tongue Skinks are omnivores, meaning they eat both animal protein and plant matter. Their diet should consist of a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and fruit.

Protein (50%) – Cooked lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef), eggs, high-quality canned dog/cat food, and live insects (dubia roaches, superworms, crickets).
Vegetables (40%) – Dark leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens, along with squash, carrots, and green beans.
Fruits (10%) – Berries, mango, apple, pear, banana (occasional treats only).

Feeding Schedule

Juveniles (0-6 months): Feed daily.
Sub-adults (6-12 months): Feed every other day.
Adults (12+ months): Feed 2-3 times per week.

Calcium & Supplements

To prevent calcium deficiency, dust their food with calcium powder (with D3) 2-3 times per week and provide a multivitamin supplement once a week.

4. Handling & Behavior

Blue Tongue Skinks are known for their calm and friendly personalities. They rarely bite but may hiss or flatten their bodies when they feel threatened. Taming a skink requires patience and consistency.

When handling, always support their entire body, including their belly and tail. Avoid grabbing them from above, as this can make them feel threatened. Start with short handling sessions, and over time, they will become more comfortable with you.

5. Common Health Issues & Prevention

Respiratory Infections

Symptoms include wheezing, open-mouth breathing, and nasal discharge. This is usually caused by improper humidity or temperature levels. Keeping the enclosure at the right conditions will help prevent this.

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

MBD occurs due to a lack of calcium or UVB exposure. Symptoms include weak or deformed limbs, tremors, and lethargy. Ensure your skink has access to UVB light and a calcium-rich diet.

Shedding Problems

Inadequate humidity can lead to incomplete shedding, especially around the toes. Soaking your skink in lukewarm water can help loosen stuck shed.

Parasites

Symptoms of internal parasites include weight loss, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite. A vet visit is necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

Regular vet checkups and careful observation of your skink’s behavior can prevent most health issues.

6. Breeding & Lifespan

Blue Tongue Skinks reach sexual maturity at 18-24 months. Unlike many reptiles, they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. A female skink typically gives birth to 5-15 babies after a 90-120 day gestation period. The babies are independent from birth and should be housed separately.

In captivity, a well-cared-for Blue Tongue Skink can live 15-20 years, with some reaching over 25 years.

Blue Tongue Skinks make wonderful pets due to their docile nature, intelligence, and easy care requirements. By providing a proper enclosure, balanced diet, and regular handling, you can ensure your skink remains happy and healthy for many years. With patience and proper care, they can become engaging and affectionate companions.

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Our specialty is premium live and dried insect-based feeds like mealworms, superworms, crickets, roaches, waxworms, and hornworms. These insects are grown on an organic diet, making them a nutritious and tasty treat for your pets.

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