
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Eumeces schneideri
A medium skink from Middle East to North Africa. Beautiful orange spots, hardy and easy to keep.
Schneider's skink (Eumeces schneiderii), also known as the Berber skink or orange-spotted skink, is a robust lizard native to arid and semi-arid habitats across North Africa and the Middle East, from Morocco east to Afghanistan and Pakistan. Adults typically reach 30–40 cm in total length. The body is tan to olive-brown with rows of orange spots along the flanks, giving this species an attractive appearance. Schneider's skink is an omnivore, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, plant matter, and eggs. It is considered one of the hardier and more straightforward lizards to keep in captivity, thriving in dry setups with sand or sandy loam substrate. With regular handling most individuals become quite docile.
The Schneider's Skink lives 15-20 years.
The Schneider's Skink grows to 30-40cm.
A hot basking spot of 35–40°C and a cool retreat of 25–28°C should be provided.
Origin
North Africa to the Middle East (Morocco, Egypt, Iran and surrounding regions)
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
30-40cm
Temperature
Sources: Wikipedia (EN) Schneider's skink
Breeding season: Monoestrous (one clutch per year). In the native range (North Africa and the Middle East), mating tends to occur in spring through early summer.
Breeding notes
Captive breeding is considered challenging; males can be aggressive during courtship, risking injury to females. A moist soil-and-moss nesting substrate is recommended for egg deposition. Fertile eggs hatch approximately 7–10 weeks (49–70 days) after laying. This species is monoestrous, with only one clutch produced per year.
Breeding requires planning, proper husbandry, and responsibility. These figures are general guidelines.
Sources: The Vet Desk – Schneider's Skink Complete Care Guide
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: Eumeces schneideri (Daudin, 1802)
Synonyms: Eumeces pavimentatus Geoffroy De St.Hilaire, Eumeces pavimentatus var. syriaca Boettger, 1883, Eumeces schneideri Boulenger, 1887, Euprepes princeps Eichwald, 1839, Euprepis princeps Eichwald, 1839, Novoeumeces schneiderii (Daudin, 1802)
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Checklist (not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Insects, Vegetables
Set up a dry enclosure of 90cm or more with sandy substrate. Once tame, many individuals are calm and adapt to handling.
Manage with a 35-40°C basking spot, a 25-28°C cool side, and dry humidity of 30-50%.
Omnivorous; feed mainly insects along with vegetables. Dust insects with calcium powder to prevent nutritional imbalance.
Burrowing habit, provide deep substrate
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 Schneider's Skink is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Schneider's Skink typically reaches 30-40cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Schneider's Skink feeds on: Insects, Vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Schneider's Skink varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: July 3, 2026