Facts about Blue-tongued Skink

1. 06

   Slow-moving blue-tongued skinks from Australia can reach 20 inches in length and weigh up to 2 pounds, making them among the heaviest lizard species in their native range.

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2. 05

   Temperatures between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit are optimal for blue-tongued skink digestion, with these reptiles becoming lethargic in cooler environments below 70 degrees.

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3. 04

   Viviparous reproduction in blue-tongued skinks means females carry developing eggs internally and give birth to live young, typically producing 5 to 25 offspring per litter.

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4. 03

   Autotomy in blue-tongued skinks allows them to detach their tails when threatened, with the severed tail thrashing for up to 30 minutes to distract predators.

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5. 02

   Eastern blue-tongued skinks can live 15 to 20 years in captivity, making them popular long-term reptile pets in Australia and North America.

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6. 01

   A blue-tongued skink's distinctive cobalt tongue comprises up to 25 percent of its total body length when fully extended.

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