fire sided skink care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Fire Sided Skink
Scientific Name: Mabuya perrotetii
Distribution: East & South Africa
Size: 10" - 14"
BEHAVIOR:
Most will become tame with regular handling.
CAPTIVE ENVIRONMENT:
This terrestrial skink species occupies the dry bush lands and rocky regions within Africa. Adults require a 29 gal. size enclosure when kept in captivity. You can use reptile soil mixes, calcium carbonate sands, reptile bark or reptile carpets for substrates. Clean substrates often or as they become soiled. Likes areas of dense foliage for climbing and hiding. Provide rocky basking areas, likes crevices and caves.
LIGHTING:
Full-Spectrum lighting that emits UVB is a must for captive reptiles. Reptiles depend on ultra-violet light to synthesize vitamin D3, which regulates calcium absorption in the intestine. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light and should never be used as an enclosure top. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received. Provide a basking area with access to a cooler zone.
TEMPERATURE:
Day temperature should be from 80-95 degrees F. Maintain night temperature range between 70-75 degrees F. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. Using spotlights of variable wattage incandescent bulbs on the outside of the enclosure, under tank heaters or heat rocks or any combination of these. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Never place lights inside the enclosure where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
WATER:
Use only a small water bowl for drinking. This species requires low to moderate levels of humidity.
FOOD:
They will eat small insects, flies, mosquitoes, and insect larvae. Dust food with calcium and vitamins. Will also eat crickets.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it. 
