Blue-tongued skink

The lizard with the blue tongue

The blue-tongued skink is one of the largest and best-known skinks, with a stout, elongated body that can reach 45–60 cm in length, short legs and a broad, triangular head. Its name comes from its most famous feature: an intense cobalt-blue tongue that the animal displays by gaping its mouth when threatened, startling predators with an unexpected flash of colour.

Habitat and distribution

It is native to Australia, where it inhabits savannas, scrub and semi-arid regions, and it also occurs on Tanimbar Island in Indonesia. It adapts well to gardens and suburban settings, where it shelters under logs, stones and debris.

Behaviour and diet

It is a diurnal, ground-dwelling reptile with slow movements and a generally placid temperament. It is omnivorous: it feeds on insects, snails, fruit, flowers and plant matter, and its strong teeth let it crush snail shells. Unlike many reptiles it does not lay eggs: it is viviparous and gives birth to fully formed young.

Terrarium care

Its docility and longevity make it one of the most popular terrarium reptiles. It needs ample space, a warm basking spot for thermoregulation, UVB lighting, a substrate to dig in and a varied diet. It should be handled gently and calmly: when stressed it may puff up and hiss, but it rarely bites.

Conservation

The IUCN lists the species as Least Concern: it is common and widespread. In the wild the main dangers are road traffic, cats and dogs, and the use of snail baits that can poison it indirectly.