The Pink-tongue Skink (Cyclodomorphus gerrardii) is a slender, semi-arboreal skink from the wet forests and rainforest margins of eastern Australia. Despite its resemblance to the blue-tongue group, it is a distinct species with its own specific dietary needs and husbandry requirements. It is named for its pale pink tongue rather than the vivid blue of its better-known relatives. Adults reach around 35 to 45 cm and can live 15 to 20 years with good care.
In Queensland a wildlife keeper's licence is required. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide before purchasing.
Enclosure
Pink-tongues are more arboreal than blue-tongues and benefit from both floor space and some climbing height. A 3 to 4 ft enclosure with several branches, cork tubes, or climbing structures suits an adult well. Include at least two hides, a water bowl, and a mix of ground and elevated resting spots.
Because this species comes from humid forest habitats, the substrate should be able to hold some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Coconut husk, orchid bark, or a soil-based bioactive substrate all work well.
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Heating
Pink-tongues require a gentler gradient than blue-tongues, reflecting their cooler, more humid forest origin.
- Basking surface: 30 to 32°C
- Cool end: 22 to 24°C
- Night: allow to drop to the low 20s°C
Use a thermostat on all heat sources and verify temperatures with thermometers at both ends. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
Humidity
This species needs higher humidity than most other skinks. Aim for around 60 to 70% ambient humidity. Light daily misting of the enclosure walls or occasional misting of the substrate helps achieve this. Allow the enclosure to partially dry between sessions: stagnant damp conditions promote respiratory infections and skin issues. Good airflow is important.
UVB Lighting
Provide a 5.0 UVB tube on a 10 to 12 hour cycle. Pink-tongues are active in lower light conditions than open-country lizards, so a lower UVB output is appropriate. Replace the tube every 6 to 12 months. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Diet
The pink-tongue's dietary specialisation is the most important thing to understand about this species. In the wild, they are molluscivores: their primary food source is snails and slugs. In captivity, snails should form the cornerstone of their diet alongside other invertebrates and limited amounts of soft protein.
What to offer
- Snails: the more the better. Pet-grade snails raised for reptile feeding are ideal.
- Live insects: crickets, woodies, and roaches as a regular supplement.
- Small amounts of lean protein: limited quantities of lean cooked meat or quality reptile food.
- Limited fruit and soft vegetables: offered occasionally rather than as a dietary staple.
Critical warning
Never feed wild-collected snails or slugs. Garden snails and slugs are frequently exposed to molluscicide (snail bait), which is lethal to pink-tongue skinks even in trace amounts. Only feed snails from a known, safe source. If you are unsure, contact us for advice on sourcing feeder snails.
Supplements
Dust food with calcium at least twice a week and use a reptile multivitamin once a week. Provide fresh water daily.
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Handling and Temperament
Pink-tongue skinks are gentle and rarely defensive. They handle calmly once established and are a rewarding species to work with. Give a new animal a week to settle before handling. Support the body fully and handle at a calm, unhurried pace.
Breeding
Like blue-tongues, pink-tongues are live-bearers. Breeding follows a winter cooling period with reduced temperatures and shorter days. After a gradual return to normal conditions, mating occurs and the female gives birth to a litter of live young. Litters are often larger than those of blue-tongues. Young are independent from birth and must be separated from adults immediately to prevent predation.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 35 to 45 cm |
| Lifespan | 15 to 20 years |
| Enclosure (adult) | 3 to 4 ft enclosure with climbing structure |
| Basking surface | 30 to 32°C |
| Cool end | 22 to 24°C |
| Humidity | 60 to 70% |
| UVB | 5.0, 10 to 12 hrs/day, replace every 6 to 12 months |
| Primary food | Snails and slugs from a safe source |
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- Enclosures and Reptile Supplies
- UVB Lighting
- Heating and Thermostats
- Live Feeders
- Reptile Food and Supplements
- Substrate and Decor
If you have questions about feeder snails or setting up for a pink-tongue, our team is always happy to help.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Individual animals vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Always consult a qualified reptile vet for health concerns. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Pink-tongue Skinks.
