Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink Care Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks! These fascinating reptiles are native to New Guinea and are known for their striking appearance, including their bright red eyes. As a responsible owner, it’s essential to provide them with the right care to ensure their health and well-being.

Habitat and Enclosure

1. 1. Terrarium Size: Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks thrive in a spacious enclosure. A 90x45x45 terrarium is suitable for a single adult skink, but larger is always better.
   2. Substrate: Use a mix of bio active forest substrates, coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter. Maintain a humid environment by misting the substrate regularly.
   3. Hide Spots: Provide multiple hiding spots using cork bark, driftwood, or artificial caves.
   4. Temperature
      • Basking Spot: 29–32°C
      • Cool Side: 24–27°C
      • Nighttime Drop: 21–24°C

• UVB lighting Red-eyed crocodile skinks are a Ferguson zone 1 species. Provide a UVI of 0.7 to 1.4. 

Feeding

1. Diet: Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are insectivores. Feed them a variety of live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms.
2. Supplements: Dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements
3. Occasional Treats: Offer occasional treats like fruit flies or small silkworms.

Humidity and Water

1. Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels (70–80%). Use a misting system or hand-spray the enclosure.
2. Water: Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking. Ensure it’s cleaned regularly.

Social Behaviour

• Handling: Handle them gently and infrequently. They are shy and may stress easily.

Health and Maintenance

1. Regular Health Checks: Observe your skink for any signs of illness, such as lethargy, weight loss, or skin issues.
2. Substrate Cleaning: Remove soiled substrate regularly.