Reptile · Skink
Northern blue-tongued skink care guide
Tiliqua scincoides intermedia
The northern blue-tongued skink is a beginner-level skink from Northern Australia. Adults reach 45–60 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Strictly solitary.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 35–38°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a northern blue-tongued skink cost in Canada?
Northern blue-tongued skink quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 45–60 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Northern Australia
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 35–38°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Omnivore – greens, vegetables, roaches, snails, quality dog food
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Northern blue-tongued skink enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Basking 35–38°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a northern blue-tongued skink eat?
Omnivore – greens, vegetables, roaches, snails, quality dog food. Adults 2–3 times a week, juveniles every day or two.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm and sturdy; one of the best handling lizards.
Health watch: Obesity, stuck shed and respiratory infection.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a northern blue-tongued skink bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Northern blue-tongued skink FAQ
Is the northern blue-tongued skink good for beginners?
Yes – the northern blue-tongued skink is a good choice for beginners. Calm and sturdy; one of the best handling lizards.
What size enclosure does a northern blue-tongued skink need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a northern blue-tongued skink cost in Canada?
Typically $400–900 CAD to buy, about $1020–1770 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–500 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a northern blue-tongued skink need?
Temperature: Basking 35–38°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a northern blue-tongued skink eat?
Omnivore – greens, vegetables, roaches, snails, quality dog food. Adults 2–3 times a week, juveniles every day or two.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.