Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-12 years

Size

18-25cm

Temperature

22〜27℃

Humidity

70〜90%

Diet

Insects (small crickets, isopods)

Humidity

Maintain 70-90%. Misting + water area provided

Hides

Multiple shelters. Cork bark or coconut shells

Temperature

Heat-sensitive. Keep below 28°C

Diet & Feeding

Insectivorous; feed small crickets, dubia roaches and woodlice. It is not very active, so take care not to overfeed.

Notes

Dislikes handling. Best enjoyed as display animal

About Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

Meet the Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink: a small, dragon-like lizard with red eyes and armored scales. Learn about its size, lifespan, humidity needs, and temperament before bringing one home.

7 things to know before welcoming a Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

1. 1High Humidity Is Essential

   As a species from tropical rainforest floors, these skinks need consistently high humidity in their enclosure. Let the habitat dry out and you risk skin and shedding problems, so regular misting and a moisture-retentive substrate are key.

2. 2Shy and Needs Hiding Spots

   This is a naturally cautious lizard that spends much of its time tucked away. Fill the enclosure with plenty of secure hides and cover so it can retreat and feel safe.

3. 3Handle Gently — Tail Drops

   Startling or gripping this skink too firmly can cause it to drop its tail as a defense. A dropped tail won't regenerate to its original form, so keep handling minimal and always gentle.

4. 4Compact Body, Compact Setup

   Adults reach only about 18 to 25cm, so this species doesn't demand a huge enclosure compared to many other reptiles. Even so, make sure there's enough room for hides and a proper layout.

5. 5An 8-to-12-Year Commitment

   With good care, these skinks can live around 8 to 12 years, so this is a long-term relationship, not a short one. Before bringing one home, consider whether you can provide consistent care for that whole span.

6. 6Mainly an Insect Eater

   Their diet centers on live insects such as crickets. Dusting food with calcium and adjusting portions to the individual's appetite are part of the routine care this species requires.

7. 7Check the Difficulty Level First

   This species is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers, given the humidity control and hiding-spot setup it needs. Before adopting, confirm you can maintain the right humidity monitoring and habitat setup.

Frequently asked questions about Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?

A.It's generally considered an intermediate-level species due to the humidity control it requires. It suits keepers with some reptile experience who can manage humidity and temperature consistently.

Q.How big does it get?

A.Adults typically reach about 18 to 25cm in length. That makes it one of the smaller reptile species, so its enclosure can be relatively compact.

Q.How long do they live?

A.With proper care, they typically live around 8 to 12 years. Be prepared for a long-term commitment before bringing one home.

Q.Can it be handled and get used to people?

A.These skinks are naturally shy and aren't well suited to frequent handling. They may drop their tail if startled, so it's best to enjoy them mainly through quiet observation.

Q.Is this species regulated under CITES?

A.This species is not subject to CITES.

Useful tools for Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink care

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