PINK TONGUE SKINK (Hemisphaeriodon gerrardii)

PINK TONGUE SKINK (Hemisphaeriodon gerrardii)

Full Description

Here’s a comprehensive care guide for the Pink Tongue Skink (Cyclodomorphus gerrardii), a fascinating and often overlooked species of skink known for its pink tongue and docile temperament.

Pink Tongue Skink Care Guide

Quick Facts:

  • Scientific Name: Cyclodomorphus gerrardii

  • Lifespan: 15–20 years

  • Adult Size: 15–20 inches

  • Temperament: Generally docile and curious

  • Native Range: Eastern Australia

Enclosure

Size:

  • Minimum: 36″ x 18″ x 18″ (40-gallon tank)

  • Ideal: 4’x2’x2′ for adults

Substrate:

  • Coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or bioactive mix for humidity retention

  • Avoid sand or loose particulates that can cause impaction

Enclosure Type:

  • Horizontal space is more important than height

  • Secure lid (they’re good climbers)

️ Temperature & Humidity

Basking Spot:

  • Temperature: 90–95°F (32–35°C)

  • Use a basking lamp on a timer for 10–12 hours/day

Cool Side:

  • Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

Night Temp:

  • 70–75°F (21–24°C)

Humidity:

  • Ideal Range: 60–80%

  • Mist daily or use a humid hide

  • Monitor with a hygrometer

Lighting

  • UVB Lighting: Recommended but not absolutely necessary

    • Use a 5.0 UVB bulb or equivalent

  • Helps with calcium absorption and overall health

️ Diet

Pink tongue skinks are omnivores. Offer a varied diet including:

Protein:

  • Insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms)

  • Cooked lean meats

  • High-quality canned dog or cat food (sparingly)

  • Eggs (scrambled or hard-boiled)

Plant Matter:

  • Leafy greens (collards, mustard, dandelion)

  • Squash, carrots

  • Fruits like berries, mango, banana (in moderation)

Supplements:

  • Calcium with D3: 2–3x per week

  • Multivitamin: 1x per week

Enclosure Maintenance

  • Spot clean daily

  • Full substrate change every 4–6 weeks

  • Disinfect enclosure with reptile-safe cleaner

Handling & Temperament

  • Naturally calm but shy

  • Handle gently and support their body

  • Start with short sessions to build trust

Health & Shedding

Common Issues:

  • Respiratory infections (linked to poor humidity)

  • Mouth rot

  • Mites

  • Shedding problems

Provide a moist hide and maintain humidity to aid shedding. Always consult a reptile vet if health concerns arise.

Breeding

  • Live-bearers, unlike blue tongues (which lay eggs)

  • Gestation: ~100 days

  • Litter size: 5–15 babies

  • Best left to experienced keepers due to space and care needs

✅ Supplies Checklist

  • Proper-sized enclosure with secure lid

  • Heat lamp & thermostat

  • UVB light (optional but ideal)

  • Hygrometer & thermometer

  • Hides (cool and warm side)

  • Moist hide

  • Water dish

  • Climbing branches, décor

  • Insect tongs, food/water dishes

  • Calcium & vitamin supplements

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