
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mochlus fernandi
A large skink with a golden to bronze back and flanks banded in black and white over red. It has stout limbs and a thick tail, is crepuscular, and burrows or hides in cavities and under roots.
The African fire skink (Mochlus fernandi) is a large skink of tropical West Africa and the westernmost part of Central Africa. It reaches 30-38 cm in total length with a snout-vent length of 17-18 cm, males being slightly larger and more brightly coloured. The back is a uniform golden to bronze brown, while the flanks from the head to about mid-tail carry strong black and white barring over red, and the legs are dark brown to blackish. Its squarish build and thick tail give it a typically skink-like appearance. The epithet fernandi refers to the island formerly known as Fernando Po, now Bioko. It is crepuscular and also basks during the day, is largely terrestrial, hides in cavities and under roots and will burrow into loose soil.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The African Fire Skink lives 15-20 years in captivity.
Captive lifespans of 15-20 years are commonly reported, and as a very hardy animal it is regarded as suitable for beginners.
The African Fire Skink grows to 30-38cm total length (SVL 17-18cm).
Origin
Tropical West Africa and the westernmost part of Central Africa, from Guinea to Angola, in rainforest, woodland and densely vegetated areas
Lifespan
15-20 years in captivity
Size
30-38cm total length (SVL 17-18cm)
Sources: ReptiFiles: Fire Skink Care Sheet / Reptiles Magazine: African Fire Skink Care Sheet / Wikipedia (German): Feuerskink
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.
Accepted name: Mochlus fernandi (Burton, 1836)
Synonyms: Tiliqua fernandi Burton, 1836, Riopa fernandi (Burton, 1836), Lepidothyris fernandi (Burton, 1836), Plestiodon harlani Hallowell, 1845
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Not listed in any CITES appendix (no listing record in Species+). The IUCN Red List assessment could not be confirmed. This species is neither included among the designated animals listed in the Animal Welfare and Management Law Ordinance Schedule nor designated as an alien species under the Invasive Species Act Ordinance.
Sources: CITES Species+ (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Humidity
60〜70%
Carnivorous: insects and arthropods such as crickets, roaches and worms
Keep the basking spot at 33-35 C, the cool side at 24-29 C and nights at 21-24 C. Humidity is best managed through the substrate: keep it damp at all times, equivalent to 60-70 percent relative humidity. As long as the substrate stays moist, surface humidity may drop to around 40 percent.
Reaching 38 cm, it needs an enclosure of at least about 90 x 45 x 45 cm even for a single animal. Because it burrows, give it 10-15 cm of moisture-retentive substrate and furnish the enclosure with cave-like hides, driftwood and root-style decor. Live plants help stabilise humidity.
Insectivorous, taking crickets, roaches and worms. Offer feeders scaled to its size, dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements. Being crepuscular, it responds best when fed around dawn and dusk.
Usually described as very shy, but housed properly it is active and shows plenty of character. It is hardy and easy to keep, suitable for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Without enough cover it will stay hidden, so provide retreats both on and under the surface.
Not listed on any CITES appendix. It appears neither on the schedule of designated dangerous animals under the Order for Enforcement of the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals nor on Japan's list of invasive alien species. The genus has changed repeatedly and the names Riopa fernandi and Lepidothyris fernandi are still in circulation, so confirm that they refer to the same animal when buying. The fire skink in its traditional broad sense has been split into three species, so animals said to come from East Africa may belong to a different one. No IUCN Red List assessment could be confirmed.
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 average lifespan of African Fire Skink is 15-20 years in captivity. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
African Fire Skink typically reaches 30-38cm total length (SVL 17-18cm) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
African Fire Skink feeds on: Carnivorous: insects and arthropods such as crickets, roaches and worms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of African Fire Skink varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026