Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers!

Today, we’re diving into one of the most fascinating lizards in the reptile world—the Solomon Island Skink, also known as the monkey-tailed or prehensile-tailed skink. This unique herbivore is the largest of all skinks and boasts some truly incredible features, like its prehensile tail and sloth-like demeanor. But is the Solomon Island Skink the right pet for you? Let’s explore everything you need to know in our review:

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Overview

Solomon Island Skinks are large, arboreal lizards native to the tropical forests of the Solomon Islands. They are known for their unique prehensile tails, which they use to grip branches and navigate their environment, and their herbivorous diet, which sets them apart from most other skinks. Here’s a quick summary of what makes them stand out:

• Handling and Temperament: Can be temperamental, with some individuals being docile and others feisty. Their strong bite and sharp claws require careful handling.
• Care and Maintenance: Moderate care requirements, including a herbivorous diet, high humidity, and a spacious enclosure.
• Health and Durability: Generally hardy but sensitive to dehydration and stress.
• Availability: Rare in the pet trade, often requiring sourcing from specialized breeders.
• Cost: High upfront cost due to their rarity and specific enclosure needs.

Overall: Solomon Island Skinks are ideal for experienced reptile enthusiasts who want a unique, long-term pet with a captivating personality. However, their specific care needs and handling challenges make them less suitable for beginners.

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Why Choose a Solomon Island Skink?

Solomon Island Skinks are perfect for those seeking a truly unique and interactive reptile. Their herbivorous diet, prehensile tail, and sloth-like movements set them apart from other lizards. They are also long-lived, with a lifespan of 15–25 years, making them a rewarding companion for dedicated owners.

However, their rarity, high upfront cost, and specific care requirements mean they are better suited for experienced keepers or those willing to invest time and resources into their care. If you’re looking for a pet that combines beauty, uniqueness, and a touch of exclusivity, the Solomon Island Skink might be the perfect choice.

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Handling and Temperament

Solomon Island Skinks can be temperamental, with individual personalities ranging from docile to feisty. While some skinks are calm and handleable, others can be defensive and quick to bite. Their strong jaws and sharp claws make handling a careful and patient process.

Personality Variations

• Some individuals are calm and enjoy being handled, while others are more defensive and prone to biting.
• Their behavior as juveniles often reflects their adult temperament, so a calm baby is likely to remain calm as it grows.

Handling Tips

• Always handle them gently and with care to avoid stress or injury.
• Avoid handling them too frequently, especially when they are new to your home, to give them time to acclimate.

Biting and Scratching

Solomon Island Skinks have strong jaws and can deliver a painful bite if they feel threatened. Their sharp claws, designed for climbing, can also feel like tiny needles on your skin. However, their prehensile tail provides stability during handling, reducing the risk of falls.

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Care and Maintenance

Solomon Island Skinks have moderate care requirements, including a herbivorous diet, high humidity, and a spacious enclosure. Proper care and attention are essential to keep them healthy and happy.

Enclosure Setup

• Size: A large, well-ventilated enclosure with both floor space and vertical climbing areas is essential. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum for an adult, but larger is better.
• Climbing Space: Provide sturdy branches, cork rounds, and foliage for climbing and enrichment.
• Substrate: Use a moisture-retaining substrate like coconut fiber or bioactive soil to maintain humidity.
• Hiding Spots: Include plenty of hiding spots and foliage to make them feel secure.

Humidity and Temperature

• Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels (60–80%) through regular misting and a moisture-retaining substrate.
• Temperature: Provide a basking spot of 85–90°F and an ambient temperature of 75–80°F. Avoid temperatures above 90°F, as excessive heat can be harmful.

Feeding

• Diet: Solomon Island Skinks are strictly herbivores. Their diet should include a variety of leafy greens (collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens) and fruits (papaya, mango). Pothos plants, a common houseplant, can also serve as a staple food.
• Supplements: Dust their food with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure proper nutrition.
• Feeding Schedule: Offer fresh food daily and remove uneaten portions to prevent spoilage.

Lighting

• UVB Lighting: Essential for their health and bone development. Provide a high-quality UVB bulb and replace it every 6–12 months.
• Basking Light: Use a basking light to create a warm spot in the enclosure.

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Health and Durability

Solomon Island Skinks are generally hardy but can be sensitive to environmental changes. Proper care and monitoring are essential to keep them healthy.

Common Health Issues

• Dehydration: Caused by low humidity or insufficient water intake.
• Respiratory Infections: Caused by excessive humidity or poor ventilation.
• Stress: Can weaken their immune system over time.

Preventative Care

• Maintain proper humidity and temperature levels.
• Provide a balanced diet and clean water.
• Handle them gently and avoid excessive stress.

With proper care, Solomon Island Skinks can live 15–25 years, making them a long-term commitment.

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Availability and Cost

Solomon Island Skinks are rare in the pet trade and often require sourcing from specialized breeders or reptile expos.

Where to Buy

• Breeders: The best option, as breeders can provide healthy, well-cared-for skinks.
• Reptile Expos: Great for meeting breeders and choosing from a variety of skinks.
• Pet Stores: Rarely available, and often not the best source for healthy specimens.

Cost

• Skink Price: $1,000+ depending on the breeder and availability.
• Setup Cost: $300 to $500 for a large enclosure, lighting, and supplies.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique, herbivorous diet.
• Fascinating prehensile tail and sloth-like movements.
• Long lifespan (15–25 years).

Cons

• High upfront cost and rarity.
• Can be temperamental and prone to biting.
• Require daily care and monitoring of humidity.

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Final Thoughts

The Solomon Island Skink is a truly unique and captivating reptile that appeals to experienced reptile enthusiasts. Their herbivorous diet, prehensile tail, and sloth-like demeanor make them a fascinating addition to any reptile collection. However, their rarity, high upfront cost, and specific care requirements mean they are better suited for dedicated hobbyists rather than beginners.

If you’re considering a Solomon Island Skink, we recommend visiting a breeder or expo to meet them in person. Their individual personalities and stunning appearances are sure to win you over.

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Have you owned a Solomon Island Skink? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you care for your skink and what makes them special to you.

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