Species Fact Profile: Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides)

Blue Tongue Skink

Tiliqua scincoides (White, 1790)

Range: Australia, New Guinea

Habitat: Desert, Woodland, Scrub

Diet: Insects, Small Vertebrates, Fruit

Social Grouping: Solitary

Reproduction:  Oviviparous, 10-15 (record of 20) young per reproductive cycle, breeds once yearly, gestation approximately 100 days

Lifespan: 30 Years (Captive)

Conservation Status:  Not Evaluated

• The long, thin body is 30-60 centimeters long, covered with copper-colored, fish-like scales, and is supported on tiny legs (resulting in a waddle-like walk)
• Active by day, they are usually found close to shelter, such as a hollow log or rock crevice
• During the mating season (and usually only at this time), males will become aggressive towards females
• When threatened, the skink will stick out its blue tongue to startle and confuse predators; if attacked, it can regenerate its tail
• Due to their similar body shape (discounting the tiny legs) and similarities in coloration and patterning, some herpetologists believe that the species mimics the highly venomous death adder for protection
• A very popular best lizard due its docility and relative ease of care, the export of this species from Australia is banned
• Three subspecies recognized: the eastern (T. s. scincoides), the northern (T. s. intermedia), and the Tanimbar (T. s. chimaerea)