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Large skink named for its distinctive blue tongue. Docile, easy to handle, and omnivorous with varied diet. Hardy and long-lived.
Blue-tongued skinks are a group of large lizards in the genus Tiliqua, native to Australia and parts of Indonesia. They are named for their distinctive blue tongue, which is displayed as a warning signal to potential predators. Adults commonly reach 45–60 cm in total length and have a robust, elongated body with short, stubby limbs. Coloration varies considerably among species and subspecies but typically involves shades of brown, black, and orange in banded or blotched patterns. Blue-tongued skinks are omnivorous, consuming a varied diet of vegetables, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. They are widely regarded as docile and easy to handle, making them popular pets for both beginners and experienced keepers. Captive individuals can live 15–20 years or longer.
The Blue-Tongued Skink lives 15-20 years.
The Blue-Tongued Skink grows to 45-60cm.
The ideal temperature for the Blue-Tongued Skink is 25〜32℃.
Origin
Australia and Indonesia (including Irian Jaya)
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
45-60cm
Temperature
The majority of trade names for Blue-tongued Skinks (Tiliqua)—Northern, Irian Jaya, Kei Island, Halmahera, Merauke, etc.—are locality or subspecific designations rather than morphs and are excluded. Hypo and Albino circulate in commerce, but Hypo inheritance (recessive or codominant) remains unconfirmed, and Albino lacks robust breeding evidence; neither is annotated with inheritance patterns. Caramel is a line-bred strain.
Sources: Reptile Mountain - On Morphs / BlueTongueSkinks.NET - Albino Fact Sheet
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
The Australian subspecies was listed in CITES Appendix III in 2022.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Tiliqua scincoides Australia Appendix III, 2022) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Omnivore (vegetables, fruits, insects, dog food)
25-32°C (basking 35°C)
Use a wide enclosure of 90cm or more with a dry substrate such as aspen chips. Add a hide so it has a place to settle.
Set a gradient from a 35°C basking spot to a 25°C cool side, with humidity around 40-60%. If it gets too dry, adjust with a water bowl or light misting.
UVB lighting is recommended. Use a basking lamp to create a 35°C spot, keep it bright by day and off at night to maintain a day-night rhythm.
50% vegetables, 40% protein, 10% fruit
Prone to obesity — monitor food intake
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Blue-Tongued Skink is 25〜32℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Blue-Tongued Skink is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Blue-Tongued Skink typically reaches 45-60cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Blue-Tongued Skink feeds on: Omnivore (vegetables, fruits, insects, dog food). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Blue-Tongued Skink varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 29, 2026