Solomon Island Prehensile-Tailed Skink Species Profile

The Solomon Island prehensile-tailed skink is highly arboreal, and will require cages that are large, tall and amply supplied with branches for climbing. Enclosures can be constructed from Plexiglas, plate glass, wood frame or welded wire.

There is no "preferred" diet for the Solomon Island prehensile-tailed skink, as herbivores they will eat a wide variety of food. It should be noted that the Solomon Island prehensile-tailed skink is notorious for the frequency and distinctive smell of its defecation.

The Solomon Island prehensile-tailed skink is used to its habitat in the Solomon Islands, located near the equator, and should be given a 12-hour photoperiod each day. Light can be provided a number of ways -- incandescent, fluorescent and natural light can all be integrated successfully. Daytime temperatures should range from 82 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, nighttime temperatures can range in the mid 70s. Levels of 70 percent humidity are also recommended, as humidity is particularly important for the Solomon Island prehensile-tailed skinks’ skin shedding.