How to Safely Handle and Tame Your Blue-Tongue Skink?
Learn the correct technique to pick up your Blue-Tongue Skink and build trust, with 5 key steps.
1. The Correct Pickup Technique
When handling a Blue-Tongue Skink, approach from the side to avoid startling them. Gently place one hand under the belly and the other under the hind legs, supporting the entire body. This method ensures you don't lift them by their tail, which can cause injury.
Support their body with your hands, keeping them level. Avoid lifting them too high, as they are ground-dwelling reptiles and may not be comfortable with excessive height.
Keep your movements slow and calm to prevent startling them. A startled skink may hiss or attempt to bite out of fear.
- Approach from the side
- Support belly and hind legs
- Keep body level
- Avoid lifting too high
- Move slowly and calmly
2. Building Trust
To build trust, start with short, regular handling sessions. Begin with just a few minutes each day, gradually increasing the time as your skink becomes more comfortable.
Offer treats during handling sessions to create positive associations. Use small pieces of fruit or vegetables that your skink enjoys.
Speak softly and use a calm tone of voice. Consistency is key; handle your skink at the same time each day.
- Start with short sessions
- Offer treats
- Speak softly
- Be consistent
3. When Not to Handle
Avoid handling your Blue-Tongue Skink after feeding. They may be more irritable and less willing to be handled immediately after eating.
Do not handle them during shedding. They are more sensitive and can be easily stressed during this time.
Respect their need for rest. If your skink is asleep or appears to be resting, it's best to leave them alone.
Never handle your skink when rushed. Take your time to ensure a calm and stress-free interaction.
- Avoid after feeding
- Do not handle during shedding
- Respect their need for rest
- Do not handle when rushed
4. Stress Signals to Watch For
Look for signs of stress, such as hissing, puffing up, or attempting to bite. These behaviors indicate that your skink is uncomfortable or threatened.
If your skink is showing signs of stress, calmly put them back in their enclosure and give them some space.
Observe their behavior over time to learn what stress signals are specific to your pet. This will help you respond appropriately to their needs.
- Hissing, puffing up, or biting
- Calmly return to enclosure
- Observe behavior over time
5. Handling Frequency
Handle your Blue-Tongue Skink at least 3 times a week for 5–10 minutes each session. This frequency allows them to become accustomed to handling while still providing enough time for them to rest.
Remember, each skink is unique. Adjust the frequency and duration based on your pet's comfort level and behavior.
- Handle 3 times a week
- 5–10 minutes per session
- Adjust based on comfort level
Keep reading about Blue-Tongue Skink: Blue-Tongue Skink care sheet
Related questions
How often should I handle my Blue-Tongue Skink?
Handle your skink at least 3 times a week for 5–10 minutes each session.
What should I do if my Blue-Tongue Skink hisses or bites?
If your skink hisses or bites, calmly put them back in their enclosure and give them some space. Observe their behavior to understand their stress signals.
Can I handle my Blue-Tongue Skink during shedding?
No, it's best not to handle your skink during shedding as they are more sensitive and can be easily stressed.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your blue-tongue skink is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.