In this article, you will discover the fascinating world of crocodile skinks, from their unique appearance to their captivating behavior. You will also learn about their diet, habitat, care as pets, conservation status, and more.
Table of Contents
What are crocodile skinks?
Crocodile skinks are a group of small lizards that belong to the genus Eumeces. There are about 20 species of crocodile skinks, but the most common and popular one is the red-eyed crocodile skink (Eumeces schneideri). Crocodile skinks are named after they resemble crocodiles, with their scaly skin, triangular heads, and long tails.
Why are they called crocodile skinks?
Crocodile skinks are called so because they have several features that make them look like miniature crocodiles. For example, they have:
- Scales that cover their entire body, giving them a rough and armored appearance.
- Ridges along their back and tail, resemble the spines of a crocodile.
- Red eyes that contrast with their dark brown or black skin, creating a striking and intimidating look.
- Teeth that are sharp and curved, allowing them to catch and hold their prey.
Where are crocodile skinks found?
Crocodile skinks are native to New Guinea and some nearby islands, such as the Solomon Islands and the Bismarck Archipelago. They live in humid and tropical forests, where they hide under leaf litter, logs, rocks, and other debris. They are mostly terrestrial, but they can also climb trees and swim in water.
Crocodile Skink Appearance
Size and shape
Crocodile skinks are small lizards, with an average length of about 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm), including their tail. Their body is slender and elongated, with short legs and a long tail. Their tail can be up to twice as long as their body, and it is used for balance and defense.
Skin coloration and patterns
Crocodile skinks have a dark brown or black skin color, with some variations depending on the species and the individual. Some crocodile skinks have a lighter brown or gray color on their belly, while others have a reddish or orange hue on their sides.
Some crocodile skinks also have white or yellow spots or stripes on their back and tail, creating a pattern that helps them camouflage in their environment.
Distinguishing features
The most distinctive feature of crocodile skinks is their red eyes, which give them a fierce and mysterious look. Their eyes are protected by a transparent membrane, called a nictitating membrane, that allows them to see underwater and in low-light conditions.
Another unique feature of crocodile skinks is their ear openings, which are large and visible on the sides of their head. These ear openings are covered by a flap of skin, called a tympanum, that helps them hear sounds and vibrations.
Crocodile Skink Habitat
Now let's explore the crocodile skink habitat in more detail, and learn how to create a similar environment for your pet skink:
Preferred environments
Crocodile skinks prefer humid and tropical environments, where they can find plenty of moisture and shelter. They are mostly found in forests, where they hide under leaf litter, logs, rocks, and other debris. They are also found in swamps, marshes, streams, and ponds, where they can swim and hunt for aquatic prey.
Climate requirements
Crocodile skinks need a warm and humid climate to thrive. They are active in temperatures ranging from 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C), and they can tolerate temperatures as low as 65°F (18°C) or as high as 90°F (32°C).
They also need a high humidity level, ranging from 70 to 90%. They can survive in dry conditions for short periods, but they will become dehydrated and stressed if exposed to low humidity for too long.
Shelter and basking spots
Crocodile skinks are shy and secretive animals, and they need plenty of hiding places to feel safe and comfortable. They will use any available cover, such as leaf litter, logs, rocks, and plants, to conceal themselves from predators and potential threats.
They will also seek out dark and moist areas, such as burrows, crevices, and caves, to rest and sleep. Crocodile skinks are not very active during the day, and they will only come out to bask in the sun for short periods.
They will choose a spot that is warm but not too hot, and that has some shade and protection. They will bask for about 15 to 30 minutes at a time, and then retreat to their hiding place.
Crocodile Skink Diet
Insectivores and carnivores
Crocodile skinks are insectivores and carnivores, meaning that they feed on insects and other small animals. They have a varied and opportunistic diet, and they will eat anything that they can catch and fit in their mouth. Some of the common prey items of crocodile skinks are:
- Insects, such as crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, cockroaches, moths, and flies.
- Spiders, such as tarantulas, scorpions, and other arachnids.
- Worms, such as earthworms, mealworms, and wax worms.
- Snails and slugs, which provide calcium and moisture.
- Amphibians, such as frogs, toads, and salamanders.
- Reptiles, such as lizards, snakes, and turtles.
- Fish, such as minnows, guppies, and goldfish.
- Mammals, such as mice, rats, and shrews.
Hunting techniques
Crocodile skinks are ambush predators, meaning that they wait for their prey to come close and then strike with a quick and powerful bite.
They use their sharp and curved teeth to hold and kill their prey and then swallow it whole or in large pieces. They can also use their long and flexible tongue to catch and manipulate their prey.
Crocodile skinks are mostly nocturnal, meaning that they hunt at night when their red eyes give them an advantage over their prey. They can also hunt during the day, especially when they are hungry or when the prey is abundant.
Nutritional needs
Crocodile skinks need a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy and happy. They need a variety of prey items, with different sizes, shapes, and textures, to stimulate their appetite and prevent boredom.
They also need a regular supply of calcium and vitamin D3, which are essential for their bone and shell health. Calcium can be provided by dusting their prey with a calcium supplement, or by offering them calcium-rich foods, such as snails and slugs.
Vitamin D3 can be provided by exposing them to natural or artificial sunlight, or by using a vitamin supplement. Crocodile skinks also need access to fresh and clean water, which they can drink or soak in. They will drink from a shallow dish, a drip system, or a misting system, or they will lick water droplets from their skin or surroundings.
Crocodile Skink Behavior
Now you will learn more about the fascinating behavior of crocodile skinks, and how they communicate, survive, and reproduce in the wild and in captivity.
Social interactions
Crocodile skinks are solitary animals, meaning that they live and hunt alone. They are territorial, meaning that they defend their home range from other crocodile skinks and potential intruders.
They will mark their territory with their scent, and they will display aggressive behaviors, such as hissing, biting, and tail whipping, to warn off rivals.
Crocodile skinks are only social during the breeding season when they will form monogamous pairs and mate. They will stay together until the female lays her eggs, and then they will separate and resume their solitary lifestyle.
Activity patterns
Crocodile skinks are crepuscular, meaning that they are most active during dawn and dusk when the temperature and light are moderate. They are also nocturnal, meaning that they are active at night when they can use their red eyes to see better.
They are not very active during the day, and they will spend most of their time hiding and sleeping. Crocodile skinks are also seasonal, meaning that their activity level changes depending on the season.
They are more active during the wet season, when the food and water are plentiful, and they are less active during the dry season, when the resources are scarce.
They can also enter a state of dormancy, called brumation, during the cold season, when the temperature drops below their optimal range.
Brumation is similar to hibernation, but the crocodile skinks do not sleep continuously, and they can wake up occasionally to drink or bask.
Defense mechanisms
Crocodile skinks have several ways to protect themselves from predators and threats. Some of their defense mechanisms are:
- Camouflage, which allows them to blend in with their environment and avoid detection.
- Hiding, which allows them to escape from danger and seek shelter in their hiding places.
- Biting, which allows them to inflict pain and injury on their attacker with their sharp and curved teeth.
- Tail autotomy, which allows them to detach their tail when grabbed.
Crocodile Skink Care as Pets
However, crocodile skinks are not easy to care for, and they require a lot of attention and dedication. If you are interested in keeping a crocodile skink as a pet, you will need to provide them with the following:
Enclosure requirements
Crocodile skinks need a spacious and secure enclosure that mimics their natural habitat. The minimum size of the enclosure should be 20 gallons for a single crocodile skink, or 40 gallons for a pair.
The enclosure should have a tight-fitting lid that prevents the crocodile skink from escaping or being attacked by other pets. The enclosure should also have a screen top that allows air circulation and light penetration.
Temperature and humidity control
Crocodile skinks need a warm and humid environment to thrive. You will need to install a thermometer and a hygrometer in the enclosure to monitor the temperature and humidity levels.
You will also need to provide a heat source, such as a heat lamp, a heat mat, or a ceramic heater, that creates a temperature gradient in the enclosure. The temperature gradient should range from 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C) on the warm side, and from 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C) on the cool side.
You will also need to provide a humidity source, such as a humidifier, a misting system, or a spray bottle, that maintains a humidity level of 70 to 90% in the enclosure. You will need to mist the enclosure at least once a day, or more often if the humidity drops below the optimal range.
Substrate and décor
Crocodile skinks need a substrate and décor that provide them with comfort and enrichment. The substrate should be moist and loose, such as coconut fiber, peat moss, or sphagnum moss, that allows the crocodile skink to burrow and hide.
The substrate should also be clean and safe, and it should be replaced or spot-cleaned regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth. The décor should include hiding places, such as caves, cork bark, hollow logs, or plant pots, that provide the crocodile skink with shelter and security.
The décor should also include climbing and basking spots, such as branches, rocks, or artificial plants, that provide the crocodile skink with exercise and stimulation.
The décor should also include water features, such as a shallow dish, a drip system, or a waterfall, that provide the crocodile skink with drinking and soaking opportunities.
Feeding and watering
Crocodile skinks need a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy and happy. You will need to feed your crocodile skink a variety of prey items, such as insects, worms, snails, amphibians, reptiles, fish, and mammals, that are appropriate for their size and appetite.
You will need to feed your crocodile skink once or twice a week, depending on their age and activity level. You will also need to dust their prey with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement once or twice a month, to prevent metabolic bone disease and other health problems.
You will also need to provide your crocodile skink with access to fresh and clean water, which they can drink or soak in. You will need to change the water daily, or more often if it becomes dirty or contaminated.
Handling and socialization
Crocodile skinks are shy and secretive animals, and they do not enjoy being handled or socialized. You should only handle your crocodile skink when necessary, such as when you need to clean the enclosure, check their health, or transport them.
You should handle your crocodile skink gently and carefully, using both hands to support their body and tail. You should avoid grabbing, squeezing, or dropping your crocodile skink, as this can cause them stress, injury, or tail loss.
You should also avoid handling your crocodile skink too often, as this can make them stressed, aggressive, or sick. You should limit the handling time to 10 minutes or less, and you should return your crocodile skink to their enclosure as soon as possible.
Conservation Status of Crocodile Skinks
- Habitat loss and degradation, caused by deforestation, logging, mining, agriculture, and urbanization, that reduce and fragment their natural habitats.
- Habitat invasion and competition, caused by invasive species, such as rats, cats, dogs, and other reptiles, that prey on or compete with crocodile skinks for food and shelter.
- Hunting and poaching, caused by humans, who capture or kill crocodile skinks for food, medicine, or the pet trade.
- Climate change and pollution, caused by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, using pesticides, and dumping waste, that alter and damage their habitats and health.
Crocodile skinks are protected by several laws and regulations that aim to conserve and manage their populations. Some of the conservation efforts for crocodile skinks are:
- CITE: which is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, that regulates and monitors the international trade of crocodile skinks and other wildlife.
- IUCN: which is the International Union for Conservation of Nature, that assesses and lists the conservation status of crocodile skinks and other species.
- WWF: which is the World Wildlife Fund, that supports and funds conservation projects and campaigns for crocodile skinks and other wildlife.
- Local organizations and communities: that educate and involve the public in conservation actions and initiatives for crocodile skinks and other wildlife.
You can also help protect crocodile skinks by doing the following:
- Adopting a crocodile skink from a reputable breeder or rescue center, rather than buying one from a pet store or online seller, that may have obtained them illegally or unethically.
- Providing your crocodile skink with proper care and respect, and not releasing them into the wild, where they can harm or be harmed by the native wildlife.
- Supporting and donating to conservation organizations and causes, that work to protect and restore the habitats and populations of crocodile skinks and other wildlife.
- Spreading awareness and education about crocodile skinks and their conservation, by sharing your knowledge and passion with your friends, family, and social media followers.
Interesting Facts About Crocodile Skinks
Crocodile skinks are amazing animals, and they have many interesting facts that make them stand out from other reptiles. Some of the interesting facts about crocodile skinks are:
They can cry blood
It is a unique adaptation that helps them scare off predators or signal stress. When they feel threatened or stressed, they can squirt blood from their eyes, which creates a startling and alarming effect.
This behavior is called hemorrhaging or reflex bleeding, and it is also seen in some other animals, such as horned lizards and spiny-tailed lizards.
They can vocalize
It is a rare ability among reptiles. They can produce different sounds, such as hissing, squeaking, chirping, and grunting, to communicate with each other or express their emotions.
They are especially vocal during the breeding season, when they use their sounds to attract mates or warn rivals. They can also use their sounds to alert their mates or offspring of danger or distress.
They are maternal
It is an uncommon trait among reptiles. They are one of the few reptiles that care for their eggs and young, rather than leaving them to fend for themselves. The female crocodile skink will lay one or two eggs at a time, and she will guard them until they hatch.
She will also stay with her hatchlings for a few weeks, and she will protect them from predators or intruders. She will also share her food and shelter with her offspring, and she will teach them how to hunt and survive.
Crocodile Skink vs. Other Reptiles
Crocodile skink vs. other skinks
Crocodile skinks are a type of skink, which is a group of lizards that have smooth and shiny scales, short legs, and long tails. However, crocodile skinks are different from other skinks in several ways, such as:
- Crocodile skinks have red eyes, while most skinks have brown or black eyes.
- Crocodile skinks have ridges along their back and tail, while most skinks have smooth or keeled scales.
- Crocodile skinks have large and visible ear openings, while most skinks have small and hidden ear openings.
- Crocodile skinks are nocturnal and crepuscular, while most skinks are diurnal and active during the day.
- Crocodile skinks are maternal and care for their eggs and young, while most skinks are oviparous and abandon their eggs after laying them.
Crocodile skink vs. other New Guinean reptiles
Crocodile skinks are native to New Guinea, which is a large island that has a rich and diverse reptile fauna. Some of the other reptiles that share the same habitat with crocodile skinks are:
- New Guinea crocodile (Crocodylus novaeguineae), which is a large and aquatic reptile that has a powerful bite and a long and armored body. It is similar to crocodile skinks in having scales, ridges, and teeth, but it is different in being much larger, heavier, and more aggressive.
- Green tree python (Morelia viridis), which is a slender and arboreal reptile that has a bright green color and a prehensile tail. It is similar to crocodile skinks in being nocturnal and carnivorous, but it is different in having no legs, scales, or ears, and in being ovoviviparous and giving birth to live young.
- Frilled lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii), which is a medium-sized and terrestrial reptile that has a large and colorful frill around its neck. It is similar to crocodile skinks in having scales, teeth, and ear openings, but it is different in having a longer and more slender body, a shorter and less spiny tail, and a frill that can be expanded or retracted.
Crocodile Skink Images
If you want to see more captivating images of crocodile skinks and other reptiles, you can follow our Instagram account @dragonlovershub. We post high-quality and stunning photos of crocodile skinks and other reptiles, as well as useful and fun facts about them.
You can also share your own photos and stories of your crocodile skink or other reptile pets, and interact with other reptile lovers.
Crocodile Skink Videos
If you want to see more captivating videos of crocodile skinks and other reptiles, you can also follow our Instagram account @dragonlovershub. We post short and engaging videos of crocodile skinks and other reptiles, showing their appearance, behavior, and personality.
You can also watch how we care for our crocodile skink and other reptile pets, and learn some tips and tricks on how to keep them happy and healthy. You can also share your own videos and experiences of your crocodile skink or other reptile pets, and ask questions or give feedback.
FAQs about Crocodile Skinks
What are crocodile skinks?
Crocodile skinks are a genus of lizards native to many of the islands in Oceania north of Australia. They have a prehistoric look, with bony plates and spines on their backs and heads.
How many species of crocodile skinks are there?
There are several distinct species of crocodile skinks, each with different characteristics and distributions. The most well-known and popular as a pet is the red-eyed crocodile skink (Tribolonotus gracilis), which has bright red eyes and a black body.
Are crocodile skinks aggressive?
Crocodile skinks are not typically aggressive towards humans. They may bite if they feel threatened, but this is rare.
Can you handle crocodile skinks?
Yes, you can handle crocodile skinks with care. They are relatively docile and can be gently hand-fed.
Is Crocodile Skink a good pet?
Crocodile skinks can be good pets for experienced reptile keepers. They are relatively easy to care for, but they have specific requirements for diet and habitat.
Can you tame crocodile skink?
With patience and gentle handling, you can tame a crocodile skink. They can learn to recognize you and may even come to you for food.
How long do crocodile skinks live?
Crocodile skinks typically live for 5-10 years in captivity.
How big do crocodile skinks get?
Adult crocodile skinks typically grow to be 8-12 inches long.
How do crocodile skinks behave?
Crocodile skinks are shy and secretive animals, preferring to hide under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. They are mostly nocturnal and feed on insects, worms, and other small prey. They are also vocal, making squeaking or barking sounds when threatened or mating.
How do crocodile skinks reproduce?
Crocodile skinks are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young after incubating eggs inside their bodies. They usually have one offspring at a time, which they care for until it is independent. They are one of the few lizards that exhibit parental care.
How to care for crocodile skinks as pets?
Crocodile skinks need a humid and well-ventilated terrarium with a substrate of soil, moss, and bark. They also need hiding places, a water dish, and a heat source. They should be fed live insects dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements. They are not very tolerant of handling and stress, so they should be left alone as much as possible.