Blue tongue skink feeding

Hey reptile enthusiasts! When I first brought my blue tongue skink home, I was a little overwhelmed trying to figure out the perfect diet. There's so much information out there, but I've learned a ton through experience, and I'm excited to share my go-to feeding guide to help your scaly friend thrive! What Do Blue Tongue Skinks Really Eat? The Core Diet! Blue tongue skinks are omnivores, which means they need a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and a small amount of fruit and protein. Think of it like building a balanced meal for yourself, but for a lizard! Insects (about 50-60% of their diet for juveniles, less for adults): These are crucial for protein and enrichment. My skink absolutely loves crickets, dubia roaches, and superworms. Make sure they are gut-loaded (fed nutritious food themselves) before offering them to your skink. I usually dust them with calcium powder a few times a week and a multivitamin once a week. Mealworms can be offered sparingly as they are higher in fat. Vegetables (about 30-40% of their diet): This is where you can get really creative! Leafy greens like collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and endive are fantastic. I also offer chopped bell peppers, zucchini, squash, and green beans. Avoid iceberg lettuce as it has little nutritional value. Fruits (5-10% as treats): Fruits are higher in sugar, so think of these as occasional treats. My skink enjoys small pieces of apple, berries, melon, and papaya. Always feed in moderation! Protein (small amount, especially for adults): High-quality, lean cooked meats like chicken or turkey (no seasoning!) can be offered very occasionally. Some owners also offer high-quality wet dog food (grain-free, low fat) as a rare treat, but I personally stick to insects and veggies for protein. How Often and How Much? This really depends on your skink's age! Juveniles (under 6 months): They are growing rapidly and need to eat daily. I offer smaller portions once a day. Sub-adults (6-12 months): Every other day tends to work well. Adults (over 1 year): Two to three times a week is usually sufficient. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, so watch their weight! I aim for a portion size roughly the size of their head. What Do Blue Tongue Lizards Drink? Hydration is Key! Just like us, blue tongue skinks need plenty of water. I always keep a shallow, sturdy water bowl in their enclosure. It's important to change the water daily to keep it fresh and clean, as skinks might also soak in it. Sometimes I even see my skink taking a little dip! Foods to Absolutely Avoid: There are some things that are toxic or harmful. Never feed avocado, onion, garlic, citrus fruits, or anything with added salt, sugar, or spices. Also, avoid wild-caught insects as they might carry parasites or pesticides. Beyond Food: Enclosure & General Care Tie-in While we're talking about diet, it's worth mentioning that proper husbandry elements, like a good enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting, are vital. A warm basking spot helps them digest their food properly, and UVB aids in calcium absorption – which is directly linked to their diet! My biggest tip? Observe your skink! Their preferences and needs might slightly vary. A healthy, varied diet is the cornerstone of a happy blue tongue skink. Happy feeding!