Introduction
The Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya is a species of lizard that belongs to the family Scincidae. They are native to the island of New Guinea, specifically in the Indonesian province of Papua (formerly known as Irian Jaya), hence the name Irian Jaya.
Physical Appearance
The Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya can grow up to 60 to 70 cm in length and can weigh up to 700g. They have short legs, a broad body and a relatively short tail. Their skin is rough and bumpy, and their scales are overlapping, making it hard for predators to grab them.
Their coloration can vary from light grey-brown to dark brown, with black stripes and patches on their back. They have a distinctive bright blue tongue, which they use to intimidate predators.
Habitat
The Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya is primarily found in the tropical rainforests, savannas, and grasslands of New Guinea. They are mostly terrestrial and often burrow underground to escape the heat of the day or the cold of the night.
Diet
Blue Tongue Skinks Irian Jaya are omnivorous and feed on a variety of food, including insects, snails, fruits, flowers, and vegetables. In captivity, they can be fed with a variety of commercially available food or homemade diet.
Behavior
The Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya is a diurnal and solitary creature, except during the breeding season. They are docile and easy to handle, making them a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts. When threatened, they will open their mouth wide, hiss, and show their blue tongue as a sign of intimidation.
Reproduction
The Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya reaches sexual maturity at around two years of age. They breed once a year, and the female can produce up to 15 live young. The gestation period is around three months, and the babies are born fully functional and independent.
Captivity
Blue Tongue Skinks Irian Jaya are becoming increasingly popular as pets due to their docile nature and low maintenance. They require an enclosure that mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of hiding places, a basking area, and a cool side. The enclosure should be heated with a heat lamp or a heat mat, and the temperature should be maintained between 25-30°C during the day and 20-25°C at night.
They should be fed a balanced diet of commercially available food or homemade diet, supplemented with calcium and vitamin D. They also require fresh water, which should be changed daily.
Conclusion
Blue Tongue Skink Irian Jaya is an interesting species of lizard that is native to the island of New Guinea. They are docile, easy to handle and make great pets. In captivity, they require an enclosure that mimics their natural habitat and a balanced diet. With proper care, they can live up to 20 years in captivity.