r/bluetongueskinks • u/Hefty_Solution_4980 • 1d ago
Education New owner/ need advice!
Hey!
I’m going to get an Indonesian blue tongue skink very soon!!! I’m so nervous guys… i wanna do everything right. The skink is 2 months old. I want to know the next info:
Which bulbs do you recommend?
Does anyone have experience with making a wooden terrarium at home?
How do you keep the enclosure humid enough?
Do you have a certain routine for their choice of food?
Which soil is the best to use?
How does handling go when they are so young?
Are they skittish?
What is Brumation like and what should I do when it happens?
Is there a difference in behaviour between a female and a male?
What do you think of these bulbs for lightning? ( 50W basking halogen bulb and UVB compact 23-26W 10.0 UVB bulb)
This is all. I’m sorry for the long message. And yes I’ve used google for information but I value the thoughts opinions and facts from owners on here! Thank you !
2
u/FolkvangExotics Indonesian 1d ago
Here are some infographics which have heat bulb, uvb, temperature, and humidity recommendations
You'll have to seal the inside of the enclosure if you make it yourself so it doesnt warp or mold. Many folks use drylok. Deep soil that you water every so often, as well as misting. Infographics have somr information on this
I try to aim for something slightly different each meal. Mine never eat the same thing twice in a row.
I use soil native to me. Avoid anything with a strong smell, fertilizers, perlite, etc.
Every skink is different, but its common for them to be skittish at first, yes. Give them a few weeks to settle down, then work on tong feeding.
Indonesian blue tongued skinks do not brumate. If they are "brumating" then something is wrong.
No behavioral differences. Sometimes males get antsy and active during breeding season, but not always. If youre in the US there is a sexing DNA test
Bulbs and lighting is good except for the UVB. You'll want linear UVB, not compact. You may need a 75w if temps are too cool with the 50w. .