Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink Care
Lifespan:
Up to 10–12 years in captivity with excellent care.
Sexing:
Sexing can be challenging. Males typically have slightly larger heads and may display small pores or scales near the vent. Females lack these characteristics and have smoother scales in that region.
Enclosure:
Juveniles: 10-gallon terrarium (20” x 10” x 12”).
Adults: 20-gallon long terrarium (30” x 12” x 12”) or larger for pairs.
Provide a horizontal setup with multiple hiding places such as cork bark, mossy logs, and leaf litter to mimic their forest floor habitat.
Substrate:
Use a loose tropical substrate blend such as coconut fiber, soil, and sphagnum moss. This maintains humidity and allows for burrowing. Paper towels may be used temporarily for quarantine but should not be a long-term option.
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Spot: 85–88°F
Ambient Range: 75–80°F
Cool Side: 70–72°F
UVB: The use of a 5.0% UVB bulb is recommended for this species,
Humidity:
Maintain 70–90% humidity with regular misting. Include live moss and partial water coverage or a shallow dish to help stabilize humidity.
Food:
Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are insectivorous. Offer gut-loaded crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and small silkworms. Feed juveniles daily and adults every other day. Remove uneaten insects to maintain cleanliness.
Water:
Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking. Keep it clean and refill daily, as these skinks may defecate in the water.
Supplementation:
Calcium without D3: Dust food 3-4 times weekly.
Calcium with D3: Use once a week if adequate UVB lighting is provided.
Multivitamins with D3: Offer once monthly in place of the Calcium with D3 to support overall health.
Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are fascinating, prehistoric-looking reptiles that bring a touch of the rainforest into your home. Their unique armor-like scales and quiet personalities make them excellent display pets for enthusiasts who appreciate observing natural behaviors.
Are Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks even Available in Frederick, Maryland?
Yes! Our Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are locally bred, and usually are available now at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick County, Maryland! Visit us to learn more about these captivating skinks and how to create their perfect rainforest home — because there’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!