Blue Tongue Lizard Information

The blue tongue lizard is best identified by its bright blue tongue. Though native to Australia and New Guinea, blue tongue lizards are kept as pets all over the world.

  1. Facts

    • Blue tongue lizards, also known as blue tongue skinks, belong to the genus Tiliqua. There are a number of species and sub-species of blue tongue lizards.

    Identification

    • Blue tongue lizards are typically described as having long bodies, short limbs and blunt, triangular-shaped heads. They have smooth overlapping scales, though coloring and markings differ from species to species.

    Behavior

    • Outside of mating season, blue tongue skinks spend most of the year alone. They are characterized as slow moving, relatively docile reptiles. However, a blue tongue lizard under threat may react by displaying its tongue, hissing and biting.

    Diet

    • Blue tongue skinks are omnivorous and feed on a wide variety of plants and insects.

    Reproduction

    • Depending on the species, female blue tongue skinks give birth to litters ranging from one to 20 young at a time. Blue tongue lizards are born live and are independent at birth.

    Captivity

    • Blue tongue skinks are well-known for being low-maintenance, easy-care pets. Captive blue tongue skinks can live up to 20 years.