How to Buy Berber Skinks

Berber skinks, also known as Schneider's skinks, are a type of lizard found in parts of Africa and Asia. They can reach up to 18 inches in length and can live for as long as 20 years.

  1. Sources

    • Berber skinks are available from a variety of sources. Some online retailers will ship skinks across the country. Live animals typically require overnight shipping, which is an additional expense. You may also find skinks in pet stores. Finding a local source enables you to ensure that you purchase a healthy skink. Signs of illness in skinks include cloudy eyes and skin damaged by parasites.

    Considerations

    • Set up your skink's habitat before you take it home. Berber skinks require an aquarium of at least 20 gallons complete with full spectrum UVA and UVB lighting. Skinks require humidity levels of about 30 to 50 percent and temperatures of about 75 to 78 degrees in the day time and no lower than 69 degrees at night. A temperature and humidity probe will enable you to determine whether your setup is appropriate to the needs of your new skink.

    Warning

    • After purchasing a skink, observe it closely to ensure that your new pet is healthy. Contact a veterinarian immediately if your skink refuses to eat or displays outward signs of illness, such as skin discoloration or eye discharge.