Description:
Scientific name: Tribolonotus gracilis
Life span: 5-12 years
Skink species like Tribolonotus gracilis, also referred to as the red-eyed crocodile skink, are occasionally kept as exotic pets. The red-eyed crocodile skink has an orange-red ring around both of its eyes, and crocodile skinks resemble crocodiles with their spiky look. Adults only reach a length of 10 inches, which is relatively small.
Native Region/Habitat
The species is unique to New Guinea, where it inhabits a habitat of tropical rainforest.
Behavior:
One of the rare skink species, Tribolonotus gracilis, vocalizes when it is in danger. They tend to freeze and have been known to “play dead” when frightened (even when handled).
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Tank: Adults need a space that is at least 40″ x 20″ x 20″ in order to have enough room to explore, relax, and provide you enough space to manage their lighting and humidity needs. Also, this leaves room for a basking area, another crucial element of a skink’s tank.
Heating (Temperature & Humidity): Although some claim that this lizard doesn’t bask in the wild, you should still provide a basking area because the skink needs varied temperatures during the day and night. At a basking temperature of 82° F, the tank should be maintained between 75° and 78° F. Aim for a humidity level of about 80% since it should be higher than 70% but lower than 90%.
Feeding: As the red-eyed crocodile skink is a small species, it will gladly consume tiny crickets and hoppers. To keep your little lizard companion healthy, plan to feed live insects every two days as so and make sure they get dusted with a good calcium supplement. Together with other insects, you can feed red worms and silkworms.
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