Larvalicious Pet Reptile Care Sheet - Blue tongued skink

Blue-tongued skinks are popular and fascinating reptilian pets in Australia. With the right care, these gentle lizards can thrive in captivity. Here's a care sheet to help you provide a suitable environment and diet for your pet blue-tongued skink.

Habitat:

1. Enclosure: A spacious, escape-proof terrarium is essential. For a single blue-tongued skink, a 40-gallon tank is the minimum, but larger is better.
2. Substrate: Use a substrate like cypress mulch, coconut coir, or a reptile-safe sand mixture.
3. Temperature: Maintain a temperature gradient with a basking spot around 95°F (35°C) and a cooler side around 75°F (24°C). Use a heat lamp and thermostat for precise control.
4. Lighting: Provide UVB lighting for 12-14 hours a day to support their health and calcium absorption.
5. Hiding Spots: Include hiding spots, branches, rocks, and a basking platform for your skink to explore and feel secure.

Diet:

1. Omnivorous Diet: Blue-tongued skinks are omnivores, and their diet should consist of a variety of foods.
2. Protein: Offer a mix of protein sources, including insects (e.g., live black solider fly larvae, crickets, roaches), snails, and lean meats (e.g., cooked chicken or turkey).
3. Vegetables and Fruits: Include a variety of leafy greens, vegetables (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes), and fruits (e.g., berries, apples) in their diet.
4. Calcium and Supplements: Dust insects with calcium and provide a reptile-specific multivitamin supplement every few weeks to ensure proper nutrition.
5. Hydration: Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and ensure it is clean and filled regularly.

Maintenance:

1. Cleanliness: Regularly clean and disinfect the enclosure to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Handling: Handle your blue-tongued skink gently and infrequently to reduce stress. They may become more accustomed to handling with time.
3. Health Monitoring: Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, and feces. Any unusual signs may indicate health issues, and you should consult a veterinarian experienced in reptile care if necessary.

Legal Considerations: Check local and state regulations regarding the ownership of blue-tongued skinks, as permits or licenses may be required.

In summary, blue-tongued skinks are wonderful pets when provided with the proper care and environment. Ensure you create a comfortable habitat and offer a varied and nutritious diet to keep your pet healthy and happy. Always conduct thorough research and seek guidance from reptile experts or veterinarians when needed to ensure the well-being of your blue-tongued skink.