If you’re looking for a unique and fascinating pet, look no further than the red eyed crocodile skink. This small lizard, known for its vibrant colors and distinctive red eyes, requires specific care to thrive in captivity. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to provide the best care for your red eyed crocodile skink.
Key Takeaways
- To properly care for a red eyed crocodile skink, you need to provide suitable housing, a balanced diet, and optimal temperature and humidity levels.
- Creating the perfect habitat involves selecting the right enclosure size, substrate, lighting, and providing hiding spots.
- Red eyed crocodile skinks thrive on a diet of live insects and commercial food, and require daily access to fresh water.
- Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels is crucial for the health and wellbeing of red eyed crocodile skinks.
- Knowing the common health issues and lifespan of the red eyed crocodile skink can help you care for your pet more effectively.
Creating the Perfect Red Eyed Crocodile Skink Habitat
To ensure the health and well-being of red eyed crocodile skinks, it is essential to create a suitable habitat that mimics their natural environment. Here are the key elements needed:
Enclosure Size
The enclosure size should be at least 20 gallons for one adult red-eyed crocodile skink. If you plan to keep multiple skinks, you will need a larger enclosure. These skinks are arboreal, so a tall enclosure is preferable to a wide one. Ensure the enclosure has a tight-fitting lid to prevent escapes.
Substrate
Red eyed crocodile skinks love to burrow, so a substrate that allows for digging and burrowing is essential. Coconut coir, orchid bark, and cypress mulch are suitable options that retain moisture and humidity.
Temperature
The temperature in the enclosure should range from 78°F to 85°F during the day, with a slight drop to 75°F at night. A basking spot should be provided with a heat lamp or ceramic heater at one end of the enclosure, reaching up to 90°F. Using a thermostat to regulate the temperature is highly recommended.
Humidity
Red eyed crocodile skinks require a high humidity level of at least 70%. This can be achieved by misting the enclosure several times a day and providing a water dish for soaking. A humidifier or fogger can also be used to maintain humidity levels.
Lighting
Red eyed crocodile skinks require a 12-hour light cycle to maintain their circadian rhythm. A full-spectrum UVB light should also be provided to facilitate vitamin D3 synthesis and strengthen their bones.
Hiding Spots
Provide ample hiding spots such as branches, rocks, and fake plants to create a sense of security and privacy. These hiding spots should be placed throughout the enclosure and not only in one area.
By following these guidelines, you can create a suitable habitat for red eyed crocodile skinks that will ensure their optimal health and longevity.
Red Eyed Crocodile Skink Diet and Feeding Routine
Red eyed crocodile skinks are predominantly insectivores, meaning that they mainly feed on insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. They are also known to eat some fruits and vegetables, but these should be limited in their diet. It is important to offer a variety of food to ensure that they get all the necessary nutrients.
Commercially available diets are often fortified with vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial for your skink. However, it is important to check the ingredients list and nutritional information to ensure that the food is appropriate for your skink.
Young red eyed crocodile skinks should be fed daily, while adult skinks can be fed every other day. It is important to not overfeed your skink as obesity can lead to health issues. Offer food in small quantities and remove any uneaten food after about 30 minutes.
Feeding time can also be an opportunity for enrichment. Try offering live insects or hiding food in different areas of the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behaviors.
Supplements
In addition to their regular diet, red eyed crocodile skinks may also require supplements to ensure they are getting enough vitamins and minerals. Calcium and vitamin D3 are essential for proper bone development and maintenance.
Dusting insects with a calcium supplement is a common and effective way to provide this nutrient. Vitamin D3 can also be provided through a UVB light source, which should be available in their enclosure. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both supplements and lighting.
Setting Up the Red Eyed Crocodile Skink Enclosure
Setting up the enclosure is an essential part of caring for red eyed crocodile skinks. The enclosure should be chosen based on the number of skinks and their size. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a single adult skink, while a larger enclosure is necessary for multiple skinks.
The substrate used in the enclosure should be a mixture of soil and coconut coir to ensure adequate humidity retention. Live plants can also provide hiding places and improve air quality. Additionally, adding branches, rocks, and other decorations can provide a stimulating environment for the skinks.
Red eyed crocodile skinks thrive at temperatures between 75-85°F during the day and 65-75°F at night. This can be achieved through the use of a heat lamp or under-tank heating pad.
Proper lighting is also crucial for maintaining a healthy enclosure. A UVB bulb should be used to provide essential vitamin D3, which aids in calcium absorption.
The enclosure should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria or other harmful substances. Water should be changed daily, and the substrate should be changed at least once a month.
Choosing the Right Enclosure Type
The type of enclosure used will depend on the number of skinks and their size. Glass terrariums provide optimal humidity and temperature retention but can be heavy and difficult to move. Plastic enclosures are lightweight and easier to move but may not provide adequate insulation.
Arranging Decor
The addition of branches, rocks, and plants can create a stimulating and natural environment for the skinks. Hiding spots should also be provided as they are an essential aspect of the skinks’ psychological and physical well-being.
Providing Appropriate Heat and Lighting Sources
Proper heating and lighting sources are crucial to the health of red eyed crocodile skinks. Heat lamps or heating pads should be used to maintain a consistent temperature range, while UVB bulbs provide essential vitamin D3.
Maintaining Cleanliness
Keeping the enclosure clean is vital to the health of the skinks. Water should be changed daily, and the substrate should be changed at least once a month. Regular cleaning of surfaces, decorations, and water dishes with a reptile-safe cleaner is also recommended.
Maintaining the Ideal Temperature for Red Eyed Crocodile Skinks
Red eyed crocodile skinks are native to tropical rainforests, where they experience warm and humid conditions year-round. Maintaining these conditions in captivity is crucial to their health and wellbeing.
The ideal temperature range for red eyed crocodile skinks is between 78°F to 82°F (25°C to 28°C), with a basking spot of up to 85°F (29°C). Temperatures that are too low or too high can lead to health issues, such as respiratory infections, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
To maintain the ideal temperature for your red eyed crocodile skinks, you can use a combination of heating elements, such as heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, or under-tank heating pads. It is important to monitor the temperature regularly using a thermometer and adjust heating elements as needed to ensure a consistent temperature gradient throughout the enclosure.
In addition to heat sources, it is important to provide your red eyed crocodile skinks with appropriate lighting, such as UVB bulbs. UVB lighting helps to promote overall health and proper calcium absorption.
Remember to always provide plenty of hiding spots in the enclosure, as red eyed crocodile skinks may become stressed if they feel exposed to excessively high or low temperatures.
Signs of Overheating or Underheating in Red Eyed Crocodile Skinks
Signs that your red eyed crocodile skinks may be too hot include excessive panting, staying in cool areas of the enclosure, and refusing to eat. Signs that they may be too cold include reduced activity, staying near heat sources, and curling up in a ball.
If you notice any of these symptoms, adjust the heating elements accordingly and monitor their behavior closely. If symptoms persist, consult with a reptile veterinarian for further advice.
Achieving Proper Humidity for Red Eyed Crocodile Skinks
Red eyed crocodile skinks require a consistent level of humidity to maintain their health and well-being. In their natural habitat, these skinks thrive in warm and humid environments, and as such, their captive habitat should mimic this as closely as possible.
The ideal humidity level for red eyed crocodile skinks is between 70-80%. This can be achieved through various methods:
- Using a substrate that retains moisture, such as coconut coir or sphagnum moss. Mist the substrate regularly to maintain moisture levels.
- Placing a water dish inside the enclosure and changing the water daily to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Using a humidifier or mister to maintain humidity levels. This is especially important during the shedding process, as inadequate humidity can lead to complications.
It is crucial to monitor humidity levels regularly, as low humidity levels can cause shedding difficulties and respiratory problems. On the other hand, excessively high levels of humidity can lead to bacterial and fungal growth, which can be harmful to your skinks.
During shedding, it is essential to provide a higher level of humidity. You can achieve this by adding a humid hide, which is a hide filled with damp substrate for the skinks to use during the shedding process. This will ensure that the skin sheds in one piece without any complications.
In summary, maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for the health and well-being of red eyed crocodile skinks. By following the suggestions listed above and monitoring humidity levels regularly, you can provide your skinks with a comfortable and healthy environment.
Breeding and Reproduction of Red Eyed Crocodile Skinks
Red eyed crocodile skinks are fascinating creatures, making them a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts looking to expand their collection. Breeding these skinks can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail.
Red eyed crocodile skinks are sexually dimorphic, meaning that males and females have distinct physical characteristics. Males are typically larger and more robust, with a broader head and thicker neck. Females, on the other hand, are smaller and more slender, with a tapered tail and slightly smaller head.
Before attempting to breed red eyed crocodile skinks, ensure that you have a male and female that are healthy and mature enough to reproduce. A suitable breeding pair should be at least two years old and have reached their full size. You can tell if your skinks are ready to mate by observing their behavior – males will often display territorial behavior and courtship behaviors to females.
When it comes to courtship, males will typically approach females with their chin raised and head slightly tilted. They may also wave their tails and perform a series of head-bobs or push-ups to impress the female. Once the female is receptive, mating will occur, with the male grasping the female’s head and neck with his mouth.
After mating, the female will lay a clutch of eggs within two to three weeks. The ideal incubation temperature for red eyed crocodile skinks is between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to monitor the eggs regularly to ensure that they are developing correctly and that the temperature and humidity levels are optimal.
Once the eggs have hatched, you will need to keep the newborn skinks in a separate enclosure from adult skinks, as they are susceptible to injury and cannibalism from larger skinks. Providing adequate hiding spots and suitable heat and humidity levels is vital to their survival.
Breeding red eyed crocodile skinks requires patience, preparation, and careful attention to their unique requirements. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a successful breeding and reproduction experience for your skinks.
Red Eyed Crocodile Skink Lifespan and Common Health Issues
On average, red eyed crocodile skinks live for approximately ten years in captivity if provided with proper care and nutrition. However, they can live up to 15 years in ideal conditions.
It is important to be aware of common health issues that may arise with these skinks to ensure their longevity and happiness. One of the most common health issues for red eyed crocodile skinks is obesity, which can lead to a reduced lifespan and other health problems.
In addition, metabolic bone disease is another common issue that can be caused by a lack of proper calcium and vitamin D3 in their diet. Symptoms of this disease include deformities in bones and difficulty moving.
Shedding issues may also occur if the enclosure’s humidity levels are not properly maintained. This can lead to retained shed which can cause skin infections and other health problems.
Mouth rot and respiratory infections can be caused by poor hygiene and unsanitary living conditions. It is important to keep the enclosure clean and regularly monitor the skink’s health to catch any potential problems early.
If any health concerns are present, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who has experience with reptiles. Regular check-ups are also recommended to ensure their good health and early detection of any health problems.
Red Eyed Crocodile Skink For Sale and Availability
If you are considering adding a red eyed crocodile skink to your family, it’s important to find a reputable source to purchase them from. Due to their unique appearance, these skinks are becoming increasingly popular pets, and as a result, there are many online vendors and pet stores that sell them.
When looking for a red eyed crocodile skink for sale, it is important to do your research and find a seller with a good reputation. Look for reviews from previous customers, and ensure that the seller has a good track record of providing healthy and well-cared for skinks.
It is also important to consider the conditions in which the skinks are kept before purchasing. Ask the seller about the skinks’ care routine and living conditions to ensure that they have been properly cared for. If the seller is unable or unwilling to provide this information, it may be best to look for another source.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the legal regulations in your area regarding owning a red eyed crocodile skink. Some states and countries have restrictions on owning exotic pets, so it’s important to research your local laws before making a purchase.
Overall, responsible ownership is key when it comes to red eyed crocodile skinks. By finding a reputable seller and educating yourself on the proper care for these unique pets, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your skinks.
Conclusion
Red Eyed Crocodile Skinks may be unique and fascinating pets, but they require specific care to thrive in captivity. This guide has covered all aspects of their care, including their habitat setup, feeding routine, and health considerations.
By following the recommendations provided in this guide, owners can create an optimal living environment for their red eyed crocodile skinks, promoting their overall health and well-being. Remember to prioritize their habitat, diet, temperature, and humidity needs, taking care to monitor for any potential health issues.
Responsible ownership practices play a crucial role in the well-being of red eyed crocodile skinks. When considering purchasing a skink, it is important to choose a reputable source and ensure that the proper care guidelines are followed.
By providing appropriate care and attention, owners can enjoy the fascinating behavior and unique characteristics of these captivating creatures for years to come.