The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink: A Comprehensive Guide to Care and Captivity

The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink (Eutropis multifasciata), also known as the "Crocodile Monitor" or "Rainbow Skink," is a captivating reptile native to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Renowned for its striking color patterns and distinctive tail, this species has gained immense popularity among herpetology enthusiasts and reptile keepers. This comprehensive guide delves into the captivating world of the Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink, encompassing its care, husbandry, and natural history.

Taxonomy and Description

The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink belongs to the Scincidae family and is distinguished by its long, slender body, which can reach lengths of up to 12-18 inches. Its robust body is adorned with large, keeled scales, which provide a rough, crocodile-like texture, hence its common name.

The most striking feature of this species is its bright red eyes, which stand out vividly against its dark body. These piercing eyes have excellent night vision, allowing the skink to navigate its environment in low-light conditions.

Natural History

The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink is an arboreal species, primarily inhabiting the trees and shrubs within rainforests and woodlands. It is an active predator, feeding on a wide variety of insects, small reptiles, and amphibians. Its long, prehensile tail plays a crucial role in locomotion and balance, enabling the skink to maneuver deftly through its arboreal habitat.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the tropical regions of New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, the Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink is well-adapted to warm, humid environments. It typically inhabits forests, plantations, and grasslands, where it spends the majority of its time perched on tree branches or hiding beneath logs and leaf litter.

Care and Husbandry in Captivity

Enclosure

Providing a suitable enclosure is paramount for the health and well-being of captive Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks. The enclosure should be spacious enough to accommodate their active nature and arboreal lifestyle. A minimum size of 36x18x18 inches (90x45x45 cm) is recommended for a single adult skink.

Substrate

The enclosure should be furnished with a loose, moisture-retentive substrate such as coconut husk, cypress mulch, or orchid bark. This substrate will provide shelter, support humidity levels, and allow the skink to burrow and hide.

Temperature and Lighting

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks require warm temperatures to thrive. A temperature gradient should be established within the enclosure, ranging from 85-90°F (29-32°C) on the warm end to 70-75°F (21-24°C) on the cool end. Ultraviolet (UVB) lighting is also essential, as it helps the skink metabolize calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease.

Humidity

As a rainforest species, the Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink requires high humidity levels. Maintain humidity between 60-80% by misting the enclosure regularly or using an automated fogger.

Food and Water

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are insectivores and should be fed a varied diet of live insects, such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms. Occasional small pinky mice can also be offered as a treat. Fresh water should be provided at all times in a shallow dish.

Breeding

Breeding Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks in captivity can be challenging, but it is possible with careful planning and preparation. Males and females should be introduced to each other during the breeding season, which typically occurs in spring or summer.

Courtship rituals involve the male pursuing the female, performing head-bobbing displays, and rubbing his face against hers. If the female is receptive, she will allow the male to mount her, and mating will occur.

Eggs and Incubation

Females lay clutches of 2-6 eggs, which are incubated in a humid environment at a temperature of 82-84°F (28-29°C). Incubation takes approximately 60-70 days.

Health and Common Diseases

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are generally hardy reptiles, but they can be susceptible to certain health issues, including:

• Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by a deficiency of calcium and vitamin D3.
• Respiratory infections: Can occur due to inappropriate temperature or humidity levels.
• Parasites: Internal and external parasites can cause a variety of health problems.

Tips and Tricks

• Provide plenty of hiding places to reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.
• Use shallow dishes for water and food to prevent accidental drowning.
• Handle your skink regularly but never grab it by the tail.
• Monitor your skink's weight and appetite as changes can indicate health issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding: Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are solitary creatures and should not be housed together.
• Insufficient humidity: Low humidity levels can lead to dehydration and respiratory problems.
• Overfeeding: Feeding too frequently can lead to obesity and health issues.
• Handling too roughly: Grabbing the skink by the tail can cause injury or stress.

Why Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks Matter

Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks play an important role in rainforest ecosystems by controlling populations of insects and small vertebrates. They are also a source of fascination and inspiration, captivating herpetology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Benefits of Owning a Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink

• Striking appearance: The vivid colors and unique features of this skink make it a beautiful and eye-catching pet.
• Active and engaging: Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks are active and inquisitive reptiles that provide endless entertainment.
• Educational value: Owning and caring for a Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink can teach about the natural history, conservation, and care of reptiles.

Comparison Table: Pros and Cons of Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks

Conclusion

The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink is an enchanting species that captivates reptile enthusiasts with its vibrant colors, distinctive features, and intriguing natural history. With proper care and husbandry, these incredible creatures can thrive in captivity, providing their owners with years of enjoyment and companionship. Let us strive to ensure the conservation and well-being of these remarkable reptiles while appreciating their unique place in the natural world.

References

• Eublepharis macularius - Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink
• Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink (Eutropis multifasciata)
• Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink - Eutropis multifasciata
• Reptile Care Guide Sheet: Red Eyed Crocodile Skink