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best substrate: coconut husk and sphagnum moss. Should be 3-4 inches deep.
You can spray water daily to bring the humidity up, but I would recommend getting a standard humidifier, and running a plastic tube from the humidifier to the enclosure. Set it on a timer so it goes off for one minute every morning before the lights go on. In my experience this one minute is enough to keep the humidity within the right range.
humidity gauge: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QC7JRDP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
best bulbs: for UVB Reptisun, for basking bulbs the brand is not super important I dont think.
They are artificial junipers that are UV-rated so they won't fade and crack over time from exposure to the UV bulb:
For the 24-inch, I had to buy two of them, disassemble the branches, then reassembled them with floral foam to get the desired shape and density. To prevent Mr. Skink from digging up the base, the floral foam was secured with heavy stones shoving the floral foam against the corner. I earlier didn't secure the floral foam well enough and sure enough, Mr. Skink dug up the base.
It's one of these.
Link. You just stick the output hose into the tank, fill the reservoir with water, and set the timer to how often you want it to come on. I like this one because you can refill from the top, which you can't do with all of them. I run mine for 5 mins every hour or two, depending on how dry the moss looks
Lol yeah just a really large, pricey tank with lots of furniture. I call it that because when I first got him he was living in a leftover medium sized zoomed viv. that was more like condo/apartment sized.
As for a thermometer check out this one on Amazon. It does a great job so far of keeping things at the right temps for me. That paired with a timer for his UV light is all I got hooked up and it's perfect.
Feed a grain-free dog food mixed with veggies, we use Zignature which we got through Amazon (they're on strike rn so probably get it from Chewy or something). It comes in big cans, so open one, split into four little plastic containers, and freeze them for later. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MD03WOQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Yes it’s a heat lamp! It’s portable and has a clamp on the end so I can attach it anywhere in my home. Here’s the link on Amazon: Makmzoon Reptile Light Fixture... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4H8KV3P?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
PureBites Freeze-Dried Cat Treats Chicken is the only ingredient, and my bluey loves them! Just make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water.
I have this $15 mist thingie from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YVD7HLS?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
I had it in an open bowl for a while but the water splashes too much and it only lasts half an hour before it runs dry.
So I decided to take something taller and drilled holes around the bottom half and then added a foam lid, so the water that splashes upwards, falls back into the bowl and the mist escapes slowly through the holes. Lasts about 2-3 hours.
I got mine about a week ago (same sub-species), and i setup one of these, to help keep up the humidity while i'm at work.
I use about 8 of these throughout my household, classroom and reptile enclosures and they've been consistent and reliable for years.
I am using this one and put it in a milk jug I cut in half with one side a little lower than the other. It's a bit tricky but once you figured out it'll run for hours.
I use this fogger I bought off of Amazon. It's 3 liters, so definitely holds way more water than the reptifogger. I've had the reptifogger twice and both times they stopped working. I haven't had any issues with this one and it lasts me around 4 - 5 days without filling back up. I have a merauke so I keep his tank around 70% sometimes higher.
It’s either an injured scale or scale rot. Clean it with betadine and if it gets worse or doesn’t seem to be getting better after a week you should definitely try to get him to a vet.
Make sure you only use distilled water.. otherwise the lime and calcium deposits will eventually clog it up
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B005AYYDT0/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_1S25RFSW87ZJ1NRKAXM2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I use this pen to keep mine contained in an area. I did end up needing to double them up with zap straps to make it taller. I love it though, best purchase ever.
I use the hot hands brand, I have varying size aminals so the variety pack fit me find, keep one bag on hand, replace it in the summer if used or not lol it'll get you through most normal Power outages (8-48hrs~) HotHands Toe, Hand, & Body Warmer Variety Pack - Long Lasting Safe Natural Odorless Air Activated Warmers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004R1J464/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_N1E3SAHZTS1SK6YKDJBE
Add an extra water bowl on the warm side of the enclosure. If that doesn’t work you can put a small humidifier in the room. I’ve heard of people using cigar humidifiers in enclosures but I haven’t tried it myself and some of they may contain harmful chemicals.
That would probably be ok for an Indonesian as long as you don’t leave it on all the time. But I think 5.0 tube UVB would be better because Indonesians don’t require as much and compact bulbs can provide spotty output.
Thank you! I use the canned ones, I buy a 3 pack online and freeze them. They last a pretty long time! These are the ones I get: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TO0CLT0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_i_PFT18HJ3YZ3GZGZ5HNS2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Something like this. Just hold their hand with your finger on their palm so they can’t accidentally touch it. And just slightly touch the mail on the grinder for just a second. You don’t do t to really grind it down. Just take the edge off. Also the best way is to just put bricks in their enclosure at the entrance of their hides so they must walk in them. This is only if you really have to do it quickly.
Limited-time deal: AIRSEE Portable Electric Nail Drill Professional Efile Nail Drill Kit For Acrylic, Gel Nails, Manicure Pedicure Polishing Shape Tools with 11Pcs Nail Drill Bits and 56 Sanding Bands https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07T8H3531/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_dl_A3VQ13HEMSX0A04Z4VQJ
Always look at the ingredients:
>Water, Dried Bell Pepper, Dried Sweet Potato, Timothy Hay, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Kale, Dried Apple Pomace, Dried Banana, Dried Carrot, Dried Pumpkin, Soy Flour, Sodium Alginate, Dried Broccoli, Dried Butternut Squash, Dried Blueberry, Dried Cranberry, Dried Orange, Dried Spinach, Dried Strawberry, Potassium Sorbate (A Preservative) Sodium Benzoate (A Preservative) Calcium Carbonate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement
It actually looks much better than what you usually find at pet store chains. I'd also crosscheck against foods that BTSs should avoid to be sure. If everything checks out, you'll want to include a meat source (whether from insects or vertebrates) if you want a complete meal as opposed to a treat or a snack.
You can freeze uneaten food, which you always will have when opening a large can of dog food for just one BTS. I portion meals and keep them in the freezer; 30 seconds in the microwave will thaw them.
To optimize freezer space, something like ice cube trays or something designed specifically for freezing portioned meals can be used. I use freezer-safe deli cups because I already have a bunch of them and I can afford the freezer space. For longevity, it's important that whatever you use to contain portioned meals is freezer-safe because if it's not, the freezer will destroy the integrity of the container.
You can freeze uneaten food, which you always will have when opening a large can of dog food. I portion meals and keep them in the freezer; 30 seconds in the microwave will thaw them.
To optimize freezer space, something like ice cube trays or something designed specifically for freezing portioned meals can be used. I use freezer-safe deli cups because I already have a bunch of them and I can afford the freezer space. For longevity, it's important that whatever you use to contain portioned meals is freezer-safe because if it's not, the freezer will destroy the integrity of the container.
When I open a can of dog food, I portion meals and keep them in the freezer. 30 seconds in the microwave will thaw them.
To optimize freezer space, something like ice cube trays or something designed specifically for freezing portioned meals can be used. I use freezer-safe deli cups because I already have a bunch of them and I can afford the freezer space. For longevity, it's important that whatever you use to contain portioned meals is freezer-safe because if it's not, the freezer will destroy the integrity of the container.
Suwikeke Small Animal Playpen, Breathable Pet Cage Tent, Foldable Portable Exercise Pet Fence, with Anti Escape Top Cover for Hamster Chinchillas Hedgehogs Guinea Pig Rabbits Kitten https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HX5J21G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QAR137YB66J0QQ9C82Y2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I bought! She can’t break out if she tried tbh. I just put a fleece blanket and some tubes. She loves it
Yeah no problem! I found out the tip from another reptile owner, checked it on my skink, and that's when I found out I couldn't have dry substrate and needed to lightly mist it every once in a while. His belly scales are nice and smooth now.
This fan pulls the air and instead of pushing it out the other side (only one side is open) it's redirected out an opening on the side and blows most of the air out that panel:
Reptile Fogger Terrarium Humidifier,Forger Machine Mister 4L Large Tank ,Extremly High Pressure Silent Reptile Tank with Humidity Control and Hose https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095XWP886/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_RG0FC7TEWH40E6KVS8GV A humidifier and a little humidity gauge will help!
Hey, just letting you know that skinks need to be able to burrow under something in order to feel safe and actually sleep! I highly recommend Med Eco Earth (3 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0010OSIHW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SGVWHJ2EGTP6M5630CKE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We found a plastic ice cube tray at Walmart that has silicone bottoms. This works well as the frozen food doesn't stick to the sides. Here's a similar one from Amazon:
IceTopper Plus Ice Cube Tray with 2 Attached Lids - Easy Release Ice Cube Molds, 16 Cubes per Tray, Stackable & Dishwasher Safe, 100% Food Grade Silicone, BPA Free & Recyclable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z9Q33SV/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_NGTMQXJ705AQ6QFAVPP5
I get snails from a local pet store. They're canned and sold specifically for reptiles. Petco might not have them so you can buy them online https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-Pack-Snails-Ounces/dp/B07J2R9SGD/ref=asc_df_B07J2R9SGD/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=343320285558&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16605364259761265662&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011573&hvtargid=pla-785073868021&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=70582975913&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=343320285558&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16605364259761265662&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011573&hvtargid=pla-785073868021
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I also get Quail eggs at publix but I doubt they're very easy to come by. Basically just search around to see if you can find some!
No problem. I keep my guy out, in the pajamas for a long time. This thing (link below) helps, and it's great for transportation. He's not big on actually sitting on it usually but yours may be different. Not as good as basking but it gives me the peace of mind that he can easily find a warm source on my desk if he wants it.
https://www.amazon.ca/Pet-Supply-Imports-SnuggleSafe-Microwave/dp/B00008AJH9
AGPTEK 400mL/H Aluminum Mini Mist Maker Fogger Water Fountain Pond Fog Machine Atomizer Air Humidifier https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PAJXVJS/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_6W90R2TXM107S2CHHYW4
I'm gonna try this out this week, I have a new BTS too and don't wanna cough up $80 IF this ends up working. Plus in the reviews other people were using it for their terrariums.
I think everyone should included this in the diet RepashyBluey Buffet. Any home brew will be lacking in a vitamin or more. This is complete and they love it.
You can use a staple or i use it a main dish with other food around it for side. So i always know he's getting the proper balance diet.
this weird skink/tegu food i found at my local pet store. i feed her other stuff and tried various dog foods, but this is one of the few things she likes. https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Zoo-Menu-Monitor-Canned/dp/B006QOGWPQ/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=skink+food&qid=1610558652&sr=8-3
I bought this on Amazon and the breeder I got my skink from said it should comfortably house her for her whole life. Its kinda pricey but my skink has plenty of room and it has worked since she was a baby until now
I found this on Amazon is this thick enough I can probably find a more affordable price if needed
You really should not be using any heat sources that are not connected to a thermostat.
Unless your enclosure is located in a room with very, very good climate control (air conditioning, heating, and we're talking laboratory-grade), or you live in an equatorial country, as the seasons and weather change you are looking at 20 degrees of heat variation. As the weather changes, the temperatures inside the enclosure might reach unsafe levels; without a thermostat, as the room temperature changes, the enclosure temperature changes with it.
Instead, make sure each heating element is connected to a thermostat. Make sure each element is powerful enough (has enough wattage), and use the thermostat to fine-tune the temperature. When done this way, you can set the temperature and basically never need to worry about it. Even a particularly hot or cold day, the enclosure will still be at safe temperatures.
For your size enclosure I recommend at least 100W for the basking bulb. The wattage on your infrared bulb is fine.
For the thermostat, I strongly recommend the Herpstat line of thermostats. Using the Herpstat 2, plug your basking lamp/UV into line 1 (you'll need a power cable splitter), and your night lamp into line 2. Or, use a Herpstat 3 and plug all elements into their own line. All Herpstat thermostats can be programmed with a day/night cycle and can power up to 500W per line.
The heat mats work great with the on/off thermostats. https://www.amazon.com/iPower-GLHTMTCONTROL-Products/dp/B01E9IO6N0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1539300160&sr=8-5&keywords=Reptile+thermostat I use this one. And it works well for me.
I use these with my skinks as it gives them the ability to soak should they so desire, and they are only $20-25.
No problem. I got this before I knew how you could make your own for much cheaper, and it does work quite well. I can recommend it.
Hey there! First off, it's always better to have this stuff completely sorted out before you bring the animal home.
For daytime heating, my skink does perfectly fine with a ZooMed 100w on just one end, with a clear basking spot he can fit on. Remember 12 hours of light on, 12 hours off.
For nighttime heating, ambient house temperature is probably fine, although in the winter a heat pad would definitely help. This also depends where you live, if you're somewhere really cold a heat pad would just be recommended in general.
To prevent fires or overheating (which could burn your skink) definitely get a thermostat to regulate the temperature. This is the one I use for my ball python and works great: http://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-MTPRTC-Digital-Thermostat-Heat/dp/B000NZZG3S (to clarify I don't use a heatpad for my skink and he does great.)
As for shed, it can sometimes take longer than just a day. If there really seem to be pieces that appear stuck, you can fill a small tub with lukewarm to warmish water and let your skink soak, applying little massages. Remember not to pull on any sheds!
If you have any more questions, let me know! I am in no way an expert but all this info comes from my experience as a fellow skink owner!