Do Crocodile Skink Climb?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Red eyed croc skinks come from moist, cool places in New Guinea.

They are not huge climbers

but will climb low lying branches and decor.

Can you hold a crocodile skink?

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are not aggressive. However,

they should still be handled infrequently because handling generally frightens these skinks

. They are more of for-show reptile, rather than a companion or handling-reptile. Handling may cause them to freeze or to lose their tails.

How many crocodile skinks can I keep together?


Two skinks can be kept in a 10-gallon enclosure so long as both skinks are female or one is male

. Two males will fight and stress each other out. A 20-gallon tank can comfortably house 3-4 lizards.

Do crocodile skinks like to swim?

Crocodile skinks don't need branches or plants, but

they do like to swim

and will dehydrate rapidly if kept too dry. A fairly humid, deep mixture of potting soil and sphagnum moss is a good substrate.

Are crocodile skinks good pets?


Red-eyed crocodile skinks have become increasingly popular as a pet in recent years

, thanks to the unique markings around the eyes of the species. However, they do not like to be handled, which means that this is one type of lizard that is best kept as a display pet, rather than an active or interactive pet.

Do crocodile skinks burrow?

Although red eyed crocodile skinks

don't seem particularly inclined toward digging and burrowing

, it's still a good idea to provide at least 3-6” of substrate to help maintain healthy humidity levels. This is also a necessity if you plan to use live plants in the setup.

Do crocodile skinks bite?

Although

they rarely bite

, red-eyed crocodile skinks are uncomfortable being handled, and they are best regarded as display animals. When grasped, they will often vocalize in distress and may suddenly try to escape, play dead or even drop their tails.

Can skinks jump?

Many even enjoy being petted or having their heads scratched. Children should be supervised when handling them, as

the can become startled and jump

.

Can you Cohab crocodile skinks?

Cohabitation – Because they are considered to be a “display only” pet, rather than an easy handler,

it may be desirable to house these skinks with other species

. This species has been known to be compatible with crested geckos, dart frogs, day geckos, and other small creatures with similar habitat requirements.

How expensive are red eyed crocodile skinks?

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks range in price from

$130 to $280

depending on the breeder. While they are becoming increasingly popular, very little is known about them as they have only been part of the domestic reptile trade since the 1990s.

How long do crocodile skinks live for?

The longest reported lifespan of a crocodile skink in captivity is

12 years

. The Cincinnati Zoo, which keeps two female specimens, estimates individuals of the species live five to six years on average.

How big do crocodile skinks get?

Adult Size: They are 2 1⁄2 inches long at hatching and can reach

8-10 inches long as adults

. Males are slightly larger than females. The average size is 7.2 inches. The tail comprises about half the body length.

How much is a skink?


$150–$5,000

Since Blue Tongue Skinks aren't the most popular pet, you might have to go to a breeder anyways. This is especially true if you want a rare morph. For example, some of the cheaper Blue Tongue Skinks can cost as little as $150. However, rarer Skinks can cost up to $5,000.

Are skinks toxic?

Skinks are

neither poisonous nor venomous

. Skinks are not poisonous, and they do not have any venom in their bodies that cause allergies or other symptoms to humans.

Can a skink climb?

Most skinks have a long tail and body, a short neck, and short legs, although some have no legs at all. Many skinks burrow through soil and move by pushing against the ground like a snake. Others crawl on the surface, and

a few can climb trees

. Almost all skinks hunt insects, but larger types may also eat plants.

Are skinks friendly?

Blue-Tongued Skink Care Level


Blue-tongued skinks are as a whole a friendly, intelligent bunch, as far as lizards go

. They make great reptile pets, but they are sizeable lizard to hold. They settle down quickly, are easily acclimated to captivity, and grow into approachable, submissive pets.

Where do skinks go in the winter?

Lizards hibernate during cold times of the year, making their homes

in tree trunks, under rocks, or wherever they can find shelter

. Lizards are cold-blooded, or ectothermic, which means they have no internal heating capabilities, so they must rely on heat from external sources.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.