Skink
BLUE came to Animal Tracks as an owner surrender after developing mouth rot, a serious infection that can occur in reptiles when they experience prolonged stress or improper conditions. If left untreated, mouth rot can progress into lumpy jaw, a severe infection that can become life-threatening.
Fortunately, Blue’s condition was caught early, and he is now receiving the care and monitoring he needs to heal and thrive. Since arriving at the sanctuary, Blue has been settling in well and is already becoming a favorite among our volunteers.
Like many reptiles who are kept as pets without specialized care, Blue’s story highlights how important proper husbandry and understanding of exotic animals truly are. At Animal Tracks, we are committed to providing him with a safe, stable environment where he can recover and live comfortably.
We’re hopeful that with the right care, Blue will enjoy a healthy and happy life here at Animal Tracks — his forever home.
ORDER: Squamata
FAMILY: Scincidae
GENUS: Plestiodon
SPECIES: Plestiodon skink
Skinks are generally solitary reptiles, though in suitable habitats several individuals may live in the same area without conflict. They spend much of their time hiding under rocks, logs, leaf litter, or in burrows to stay protected from predators and extreme temperatures. Many species are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, often basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
One of the most well-known defenses of skinks is their ability to detach their tail when threatened, a process called autotomy. The detached tail continues to wiggle, distracting predators while the skink escapes. The tail can slowly regenerate over time, although the new one may look different from the original.
Skinks are typically omnivores or insectivores, depending on the species. Their diet often includes insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates, along with fruits, flowers, and vegetation.
Reproduction varies by species. Some skinks lay eggs, while others give birth to live young. In egg-laying species, females usually deposit small clutches of eggs in protected, warm environments such as soil or leaf litter. Incubation periods can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Threats
While many skink species are adaptable, they face threats from habitat loss, urban development, invasive predators, and the exotic pet trade. When kept improperly as pets, stress and poor husbandry can lead to serious health issues.
Conservation Status
Many skink species are currently listed as LC – Least Concern, though some regional populations face pressure due to habitat destruction and human activity.