Unusual Cuddly Pets

Hello all. My first contribution to this blog might seem to be an unusual one. Most people do not consider of reptiles when they think of cute and cuddly pets. Rest assured, however, that reptiles do have representatives that can appeal to the affections of the human heart and a very select few might be fall into the category of cuddly.

Blue-tongued Skink

Skinks are the first reptiles I will be discussing here. They are a family of lizards (Scincidae) that include the eastern blue tongue skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides), the prehensile tailed skink (Corucia zebrata) and the shingleback skink (Tiliqua rugosa). All three are pretty well known among reptile lovers for behaviors that defy reptilian stereotypes of being loners.

The shingleback skink, aka the pinecone lizard, aka the bobtail, aka the two headed skink is well known for two reasons; the first being that it is one of those animals with well over a dozen common names and the second being that it has a very complex social life that includes monogamy and parental care. There is one well known, oft repeated story involving a female shingleback that got caught under a barbed wire fence and expired and the male loyally was found by her side even after her death. Whether or not this story is true does not change the fact that pair bonding has been well recorded in this species. Unfortunately there are very few in captivity as Australia has understandably put tight restrictions on wildlife that can be exported, even for scientific study. Any individuals that are found are almost certainly captive bred.

The eastern blue tongue skink is another Australian species but unlike its close relative, it is at least somewhat available as a pet in Europe and the United States. Blue tongue skinks are known for their big personality and intelligence. It has been stated that they have the ability to recognize their keepers and will actually seek affection from them.

The prehensile tailed skink, a large bodied lizard from the Solomon Islands, is actually known to enjoy handling to an extent and will gladly climb the arm of its keeper. It should be noted, however, that while it has an even temperament it also has a strong grip as well as a very powerful bite if provoked so it is advisable to wear gloves when holding it, at least until it you become familiar with the individual.

Well, that concludes the first part of my unusually cuddly pets series. Part two will be arriving shortly!

Unusual Cuddly Pets