Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎
If you’re looking for an active, inquisitive, and easy-to-care-for pet reptile, the Ocellated Skink or Eyed Skink or Gongilo (Chalcides ocellatus) might be a perfect choice. These fascinating little skinks are native to North Africa, Southern Europe, and parts of the Middle East, thriving in sandy and rocky environments. Unlike some lizards that spend most of their time hiding, Ocellated Skinks are highly active and entertaining to watch. But are they the right pet for you? Let’s dive into their care requirements, handling, and overall suitability as a pet.
Ease of Handling: 2/5
When it comes to handling, Ocellated Skinks fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. They are not as docile as a Leopard Gecko, but they are far from being aggressive. These skinks are naturally skittish and may try to escape or burrow when first introduced to a new environment. They rely on their speed and agility to avoid predators in the wild, and that instinct doesn’t disappear in captivity.
With patience and regular interaction, however, they can become more comfortable around their owners. Unlike some reptiles that tolerate handling well, Ocellated Skinks prefer to explore their surroundings rather than sit still in a person’s hand. If handled too suddenly or frequently, they may attempt to jump away or burrow into their substrate.
The key to handling them successfully is to move slowly and let them get used to your presence. Hand-feeding can help build trust, and over time, they may become more accustomed to short handling sessions. However, these skinks are more of a “look, don’t touch” pet compared to species like Bearded Dragons.
Care and Maintenance: 4/5
One of the best things about Ocellated Skinks is their relatively simple care requirements. They are hardy reptiles that adapt well to captive conditions if provided with a suitable enclosure and proper husbandry.
- Enclosure Size: A single Ocellated Skink can thrive in a 20-gallon long tank, but a larger enclosure is always better, especially if keeping multiple skinks together. A 40-gallon breeder tank provides ample space for a small group.
- Substrate: These skinks are burrowers, so a loose, sandy or soil-based substrate is essential. A mix of play sand, coconut fiber, and organic topsoil works well, allowing them to dig naturally.
- Temperature and Lighting: Ocellated Skinks require a basking spot of around 95°F (35°C) with an ambient temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C). At night, temperatures can drop to around 70°F (21°C). A UVB light is recommended to ensure proper calcium metabolism and overall health.
- Humidity: These skinks prefer a moderate humidity level of around 40-60%. A slight misting in one corner of the enclosure can provide a humidity gradient without making the habitat too damp.
- Diet: Ocellated Skinks are omnivores, meaning they eat both animal and plant-based foods. A varied diet consisting of insects (crickets, mealworms, roaches), leafy greens, and occasional fruits will keep them healthy. Calcium and vitamin supplements should be dusted on their food to prevent deficiencies.
Cleaning is relatively simple. Spot-cleaning the substrate daily and replacing it every few months will keep the enclosure fresh. A shallow water dish should also be available for drinking and occasional soaking.
Health and Durability: 5/5
Ocellated Skinks are generally hardy and resistant to many common reptile illnesses when given proper care. They are not prone to the same respiratory infections or skin issues that some high-maintenance reptiles struggle with, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Some potential health concerns include:
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): A lack of UVB lighting or improper calcium supplementation can lead to weak bones and deformities. Providing UVB and a calcium-rich diet helps prevent this issue.
- Impaction: These skinks love to burrow, which means they might accidentally ingest loose substrate. Using a mix of sand and soil, along with feeding them on a dish or tongs, can reduce this risk.
- Shedding Issues: While shedding is usually smooth, retained shed on the toes or tail tip can become a problem. Ensuring proper humidity and occasional misting will help with a healthy shed cycle.
When well cared for, Ocellated Skinks can live 10-15 years in captivity, making them a long-term commitment for any reptile enthusiast.
Availability: 3/5
Ocellated Skinks are not as common as Leopard Geckos or Bearded Dragons, but they are still available in the pet trade. You may not find them in every pet store, but reputable breeders, reptile expos, and online marketplaces often have them for sale.
One challenge is that many Ocellated Skinks in the market are wild-caught rather than captive-bred. Wild-caught individuals may be more stressed, prone to parasites, and harder to tame. If possible, we recommend looking for captive-bred specimens, as they tend to be healthier and better adapted to life in captivity.
Initial Cost: 5/5
The cost of an Ocellated Skink varies depending on availability and whether it is wild-caught or captive-bred. Prices typically range from $30 to $100, with captive-bred individuals on the higher end.
However, the initial cost of the lizard itself is just one part of the expense. Setting up a proper enclosure with a good substrate, UVB lighting, heat sources, hides, and decorations can cost $150 to $300. Ongoing costs for food, supplements, and occasional vet visits should also be considered.
Final Thoughts: 3.8/5
Ocellated Skinks are active, engaging, and relatively low-maintenance reptiles that can make fantastic pets for the right owner. Their curious nature and burrowing behavior make them a joy to watch, and their care requirements are straightforward compared to many other reptiles. However, they are not the best choice for someone looking for a reptile that enjoys frequent handling.
If you want a pet skink that is fun to observe, easy to care for, and has a long lifespan, the Ocellated Skink could be an excellent addition to your reptile collection. Just be prepared to be patient if you want to build trust with them.
Would you consider an Ocellated Skink as your next pet? Let us know in the comments! 🦎
Leave a Reply