Northern Blue Tongue Skink (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia)
Updated:
Introduction
The Northern Blue Tongue Skink is the largest and one of the most popular species of blue tongues, native to northern Australia. Known for their calm demeanor and iconic blue tongues, they can live 20+ years with proper care, making them a long-term commitment.
Size & Lifespan
- Adult Size: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
- Weight: 450–700g
- Lifespan: 15–20+ years in captivity
Enclosure
- Minimum Size: Juveniles – 36"x18"x18"; Adults – 48"x24"x18–24"
- Secure, well-ventilated enclosure with multiple hides and a basking area
- Low climbing branches, logs, and flat basking rocks
- 3–6 inches of diggable substrate (aspen, cypress mulch, orchid bark, or bioactive mix)
- Avoid pine or cedar substrates
Temperature & Lighting
- Basking Spot: 95–105°F (35–40°C)
- Warm Side: 85–90°F (29–32°C)
- Cool Side: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- Night: 70–75°F (21–24°C)
- UVB: Recommended T5 HO 10–12% UVB tube, 10–12 hours/day
- Daylight Cycle: 12 hours light / 12 hours dark
Humidity & Water
- Humidity: 35–50% (slightly higher during shed)
- Provide a large, shallow water bowl for soaking and drinking; change daily
- Mist lightly during shedding if needed, but avoid overly damp substrate
Diet
Northern Blue Tongue Skinks are omnivores. Adults thrive on roughly 50% vegetables, 40% protein, and 10% fruit. Juveniles require more protein (up to 60%).
- Protein: Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef heart), boiled or scrambled eggs, high-quality canned dog food, insects (dubia roaches, crickets, mealworms, snails)
- Vegetables: Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, squash, carrots, green beans
- Fruit: Blueberries, strawberries, mango, papaya (avoid citrus)
- Supplements: Calcium without D3 – 2–3× weekly; multivitamin – 1× weekly; with strong UVB, D3 only monthly
Cleaning
- Spot clean daily (feces, shed skin, leftover food)
- Full substrate change every 4–8 weeks (or maintain bioactive)
- Clean water dish daily with reptile-safe disinfectant
Handling
- Generally docile and tolerant of handling
- Support the entire body during handling
- Avoid grabbing the tail (they do not drop it, but it causes stress)
- Introduce handling gradually to new animals
Common Health Issues
- MBD: Caused by lack of UVB/calcium
- Respiratory Infections: From low temps/high humidity
- Obesity: From overfeeding fatty/protein-rich foods
- Retained Shed: Especially on toes/tail—soak gently if needed
Quick Care Summary
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Basking Temp | 85-95°F (29–35°C) |
| Cool Side Temp | 75–80°F (24–27°C) |
| Humidity | 35–50% |
| UVB Lighting | T5 HO 10–12% |
| Adult Diet | 50% veg, 40% protein, 10% fruit |
| Lifespan | 15–20+ years |