monkey tailed skink (Corucia zebrata)

Monkey Tailed Skink: The Ultimate Arboreal Herbivore

The Monkey Tailed Skink is one of the most distinctive reptiles in the pet trade. Native to the Solomon Islands, Corucia zebrata is famous for its prehensile tail, social behavior, and large, slow-moving presence. For healthy captive-bred individuals, visit onestopreptileshop.com.

What Makes the Monkey Tailed Skink Unique?

Also known as the Solomon Islands skink, this species is the largest arboreal skink in the world. Adults can grow over 30 inches in length, with juveniles typically measuring 8–12 inches. They use their powerful, grasping tails for climbing and balance.

These skinks are intelligent, slow-paced, and herbivorous—making them unique among lizards. They’re also one of the few reptiles that form social groups, called circuli, in the wild.

Proper Habitat for a Prehensile-Tailed Skink

Housing this skink requires a vertically oriented enclosure with high humidity and ample foliage. Mimicking its rainforest habitat will support both physical and mental health.

Enclosure tips:

• Minimum size: 36″H x 24″W x 24″D for one

• Temperature: 78–82°F ambient, 85–90°F basking

• Humidity: 70–80%, maintained with daily misting

• Lighting: UVB is essential

• Décor: Vines, branches, cork bark, and hiding spots

Bioactive setups with dense greenery work best for this arboreal species.

Diet and Feeding Schedule

The Monkey Tailed Skink is a strict herbivore. Diet should include a mix of leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional fruit.

Feeding tips:

• Base diet: Collards, mustard greens, hibiscus

• Veggies: Squash, zucchini, green beans

• Occasional fruits: Mango, papaya, banana

• Supplements: Calcium (no D3) twice weekly, multivitamin once a week

• Fresh, clean water daily

Avoid protein and citrus fruits to prevent health issues.

Why the Solomon Islands Skink Stands Out

These skinks aren’t just visually striking—they’re behaviorally fascinating. Their gentle nature and strong bond with their environment make them ideal for intermediate keepers ready for something beyond the basics.

Captive-bred individuals are now available at onestopreptileshop.com, along with all necessary habitat supplies.

Conclusion

With proper care, the Monkey Tailed Skink can thrive for over 20 years. Its social behavior, prehensile tail, and unique diet make it one of the most interesting reptiles in captivity today.

Visit onestopreptileshop.com to add this intelligent, leafy-living giant to your collection.