Blue-Tongued Skink: The Friendly Lizard with a Colorful Secret

Meet the Blue-Tongued Skink

If you’ve ever stumbled upon a lizard with a dazzling blue tongue, you’ve probably met—or at least imagined—the Blue-Tongued Skink. And honestly, these little reptiles are far more than just a quirky splash of color in the herpetology world. They’re like the golden retrievers of the lizard kingdom: friendly, laid-back, and somehow irresistibly charming, even to people who usually shy away from scaly pets. I mean, who wouldn’t be captivated by a lizard that sticks out its tongue like it’s offering you a tiny, cobalt-colored hello?

REPTILE PROFILE
Reptile	Blue-Tongued Skink
Binomial Name	Tiliqua scincoides
SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Reptilia
Order	Squamata
Family	Scincidae
Subfamily	N/A
Genus	Tiliqua
Species	scincoides
Varieties	Eastern, Northern, Indonesian, Centralian Blue-Tongued Skinks
ENVIRONMENT
Living Environment	Terrestrial, prefers leaf litter and burrows
Found in	Australia, New Guinea, Indonesia
Space Requirement	40–55 gallon terrarium for adult
Average Lifespan	15–20 years
Exceptional Cases	Up to 25 years
Length	18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
Weight	250–600 grams
Temperature	75–85 °F (24–29 °C) daytime, 70–75 °F (21–24 °C) nighttime
pH	N/A
PERSONALITY
Temperament	Calm, docile, generally friendly
Social Behaviour	Solitary; tolerates humans but generally does not cohabit with other skinks
Diet	Omnivore
Food Type	Vegetables, fruits, insects, small rodents, commercial skink diet
KEY FACTORS AFFECTING LIFESPAN
Enclosure / Tank size	Large, secure terrarium; overcrowding can cause stress and aggression
Habitat / Water quality	Clean substrate with hiding spots; shallow water dish; humidity 40–60%
Diet	Balanced diet essential; calcium and vitamin supplementation recommended
Companions	Generally solitary; cohabitation may lead to stress or dominance disputes
Temperature / Environment stability	Sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations; requires stable basking and cool areas
CARE DIFFICULTY
Difficulty Level	Moderate
Messiness	Moderate; daily spot cleaning, full substrate change periodically
Additional Requirements	– Secure terrarium with hides and climbing surfaces – UVB lighting and heat source – Humidity control and shallow water dish – Balanced diet with supplements
Special Notes	Handle gently; generally tame with regular interaction; avoid cohabitation with other skinks to prevent stress

Blue-tongued skinks hail from the sun-soaked landscapes of Australia, with a few species also found in Indonesia and New Guinea. They’ve been captivating reptile enthusiasts for decades, not just because of their striking tongues but for their surprisingly engaging personalities. Unlike some lizards that zip around or hide at the first sign of a human, Blue-Tongued Skinks are remarkably social. They tolerate handling with a patience that feels almost human-like, giving the impression that they genuinely want to be with you. And if you’re the kind of person who loves watching subtle expressions—like a twitch of an eye, a flick of a tongue, or the slow, deliberate way they navigate their terrarium—you’ll quickly realize that these creatures are full of personality quirks waiting to be discovered.

The blue tongue itself is a fascinating piece of nature’s toolkit. At first glance, it seems almost comical—like the lizard is trying to play a prank—but in reality, it’s a brilliant defense mechanism. When threatened, a Blue-Tongued Skink will flash its tongue, startling predators and giving the lizard just enough time to scoot into safety. It’s a clever little survival trick that has earned them a reputation as both charming and cunning, which I find endlessly amusing. There’s something poetic about a creature that can appear so calm and approachable one moment, yet has an instinctive flash of wildness ready for the next.

Pet owners often report that these lizards have almost human-like habits. They recognize feeding times, respond to gentle touches, and some even seem to develop small “routines,” like basking in their favorite sunlit corner or nudging their favorite hiding spot just so. One of my friends has a Blue-Tongued Skink named Bertie who, without fail, waits at the glass of his terrarium whenever it’s time for his morning meal. It’s this blend of predictability and personality that makes owning one such a unique experience—you’re not just keeping a reptile; you’re cohabiting with a tiny, patient roommate who has subtle moods and quirks.

Another point worth mentioning is the sheer variety among the species. There are Northern, Eastern, Indonesian, and Tanimbar Blue-Tongued Skinks, and each carries its own unique charm. Some have vibrant, banded patterns running across their bodies; others sport smoother, more muted colors that seem almost regal. But regardless of their species, they all share the same laid-back disposition that makes them such a joy to observe. They’re not flashy in the sense of leaping or sprinting; their charm comes from nuance—the slow, deliberate way they explore, the occasional huff of breath when curious, or the way they stretch out under a warm light, soaking it in like tiny, scaly sunbathers.

Now, you might wonder: why should someone choose a Blue-Tongued Skink over a more traditional pet, like a cat, dog, or even a hamster? Well, for starters, they offer a blend of intrigue and accessibility that’s rare in the reptile world. They don’t demand constant attention, yet they’re interactive enough to form a kind of bond with their owner. They live long lives—often 15 to 20 years in captivity if cared for properly—so adopting one is a serious commitment, but also an invitation to a long, rewarding companionship. There’s a subtle satisfaction in watching your skink thrive under your care, seeing them explore new objects you’ve introduced into their habitat, or noticing how their tongue flashes more confidently over time. It’s almost like you’re watching a friendship grow, albeit at a reptilian pace.

And let’s not forget the sheer educational value. Keeping a Blue-Tongued Skink teaches you patience, observation skills, and even a bit of biology you might not pick up otherwise. You start noticing how they shed their skin, how their appetite changes with seasons, or how they respond to subtle variations in temperature and light. There’s a kind of quiet, meditative joy in observing these patterns, something I think every reptile enthusiast will resonate with. They’re not just pets—they’re little teachers, reminding us that not all connections need to be loud or fast to be meaningful.

So, whether you’re a longtime reptile hobbyist or someone dipping a toe into the world of exotic pets, the Blue-Tongued Skink has something to offer. They’re approachable enough for beginners yet captivating enough to hold the attention of seasoned keepers. Their blue tongue, charming personality, and curious habits combine to create a creature that’s as fascinating as it is friendly. If you’ve ever wished for a pet that’s a mix of whimsy, reliability, and a touch of the wild, then honestly, you might just find your perfect match in a Blue-Tongued Skink.

Identifying the Blue-Tongued Skink

When it comes to recognizing a Blue-Tongued Skink, you’d think it’s as simple as spotting a lizard with a bright blue tongue—and you wouldn’t be wrong—but there’s so much more to these creatures than a single pop of color. Their charm isn’t just skin-deep; it shows up in every scale, every flick of the tongue, and every leisurely glide across their enclosure. Understanding what makes a Blue-Tongued Skink unique is essential, especially if you’re considering bringing one into your home. Let’s break it down.

Physical Characteristics

Blue-Tongued Skinks are robust, low-slung lizards that immediately catch your eye—not just because of that infamous tongue, but because of their overall shape and markings. They usually range from 18 to 24 inches in length, with thick, muscular bodies that taper to a relatively short tail. Their scales are smooth and shiny, which gives them a slightly glossy appearance under the right lighting. Depending on the species, their coloring can vary from muted browns and grays to vivid bands of orange, cream, and black that run across their bodies.

And then, of course, there’s the blue tongue. It’s not just any blue—it’s a deep, vibrant hue, almost electric in certain lights. When a Blue-Tongued Skink opens its mouth to reveal that tongue, it’s like nature’s little exclamation point. It’s a defensive flash, sure, but also a signature feature that makes them instantly recognizable.

Other traits to note:

• Short, sturdy legs with sharp claws for digging and climbing over obstacles in their natural environment.
• Rounded snouts, giving them a somewhat “gentle” expression, which probably contributes to their friendly reputation.
• Banding patterns that can be faint or bold, varying significantly between species and even individuals.

Behavior and Personality

If you’ve ever met a lizard that seemed almost… personable, chances are it was a Blue-Tongued Skink. These lizards are famously docile, tolerant of handling, and generally unbothered by human presence. They’re curious without being skittish, which means you can watch them explore their terrarium for hours without fear of sudden panic.

A few personality notes:

• Diurnal: active during the day, enjoying basking and exploring while you’re awake.
• Docile nature: most will tolerate gentle handling; some may even seem to “respond” to their owners over time.
• Slow and deliberate movements: they aren’t jumpy or fast like many other lizards, which makes observing their behavior a relaxing experience.

Many owners notice subtle quirks, like a preference for certain spots in their enclosure or a reaction to specific scents or sounds. Some skinks even appear to recognize their owners’ presence, showing excitement (tongue flicking, slow approach) at feeding times. Honestly, it’s these small, personal touches that make them so endearing.

Species Variations

Not all Blue-Tongued Skinks are created equal. While the “classic” Australian variety is most familiar, there are several species worth knowing about:

• Northern Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia): Largest of the bunch, often with bold, bright banding. Very docile and a popular choice for beginners.
• Eastern Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides): Slightly smaller, with a more uniform color palette—think soft browns and creams.
• Indonesian Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua gigas): Sleek and elongated, often darker, with subtle banding. Can be more reserved than Australian species.
• Tanimbar Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides chimaera): Rare, with striking patterns and slightly more robust temperament; not as commonly found in captivity.

Quick comparison of key traits:

Species	Size	Pattern	Temperament
Northern	22–24 in	Bold bands	Friendly, docile
Eastern	18–20 in	Muted bands	Calm, approachable
Indonesian	20–22 in	Subtle bands	Shy, slower to warm up
Tanimbar	20–23 in	Distinctive, variable	Confident, rare

Even within a species, individual personalities can vary, which is part of what makes keeping Blue-Tongued Skinks so rewarding. You might get a lizard that’s a little more playful, or one that prefers to lounge quietly under its basking lamp—either way, it’s like having a small companion with its own unique habits.

Why Identification Matters

Being able to correctly identify your skink—or the one you’re considering adopting—is more than just a fun fact. Different species have slightly different care requirements, particularly in terms of temperature, diet, and handling preferences. Knowing whether you’re dealing with a Northern or an Indonesian variety, for example, can help you provide the best environment and anticipate behavioral quirks.

Plus, part of the joy of keeping a Blue-Tongued Skink is appreciating all those little differences—the way one’s bands are perfectly symmetrical, how another tilts its head curiously when you enter the room, or how each one uses its tongue to “talk” to the world. Identification isn’t just academic; it’s about truly understanding and connecting with your scaly friend.

Housing and Habitat Requirements

If you want a Blue-Tongued Skink to thrive, creating the right home isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. These lizards may be easygoing and friendly, but they’re still very much products of their natural environment. Replicating even a slice of that habitat in captivity can mean the difference between a happy, active skink and one that’s stressed or unhealthy. And let me tell you, there’s a real satisfaction in watching a skink explore a terrarium that feels like its own little slice of Aussie wilderness.

Enclosure Size & Type

Blue-Tongued Skinks are sturdy, medium-to-large lizards, and they need space to stretch, explore, and hide. A cramped enclosure will stress them out faster than you can blink, so size really matters.

• Minimum size: For a single adult, a terrarium of at least 48 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 24 inches high is recommended. Bigger is always better.
• Type: Glass or PVC enclosures work well. Glass lets you admire your skink, while PVC can help retain heat and humidity more efficiently.
• Substrate options: Reptile carpet, cypress mulch, aspen shavings, or a soil-sand mix. Avoid anything too dusty or fine that could irritate lungs or be accidentally ingested.
• Hiding spots: Provide at least two: one on the warm side and one on the cooler side of the enclosure. Skinks love privacy and feel safer with multiple options.

One thing I’ve learned over years of reptile care: skinks love to dig and burrow. If your substrate allows for light digging, you’ll often catch your skink rearranging its little domain, which is both entertaining and a sign it’s content.

Temperature, Lighting, and Humidity

Temperature and lighting are the backbone of a skink’s health. They’re cold-blooded, so regulating their body temperature through their environment is non-negotiable.

• Basking area: 95–100°F (35–38°C) with a reliable heat lamp.
• Cool side: 75–85°F (24–29°C) to allow your skink to thermoregulate.
• Nighttime: Can drop to around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
• UVB lighting: Essential for calcium metabolism and overall health. A 10–12% UVB bulb, on for 10–12 hours daily, mimics natural sunlight.
• Humidity: Moderate, around 40–60%. Light misting or damp hides help during shedding.

It’s not just about numbers, though—watch your skink. They’ll seek out the perfect basking spot or move to a cooler corner if they feel too warm. Their behavior is your best guide.

Decor and Enrichment

A bare enclosure is functional but boring. Blue-Tongued Skinks are surprisingly curious and appreciate environmental enrichment. It keeps them mentally stimulated and encourages natural behaviors.

• Hiding areas: Logs, caves, hollow rocks, or commercial reptile hides.
• Branches and rocks: For climbing, stretching, and basking—don’t forget sturdy pieces, as skinks aren’t the most graceful climbers.
• Plants: Safe live or artificial plants add cover and interest. Be careful with toxic plants.
• Substrate features: Little mounds, tunnels, or digging areas replicate natural exploration zones.

Watch closely, and you’ll notice your skink investigating every new item you place in its home. Sometimes they push things around, sometimes they just sit on top of it, claiming it as their throne. Either way, it’s a joy to see.

Maintenance Checklist

Creating a great habitat is only half the battle. Daily and seasonal maintenance ensures your skink stays happy and healthy:

• Daily: Remove uneaten food, check water bowls, monitor temperature and humidity.
• Weekly: Spot clean substrate, wipe down decor, check for shedding issues.
• Monthly: Deep clean the enclosure, sanitize hides and substrate, replace any worn items.
• Seasonal: Rotate UVB bulbs every 6–12 months, inspect lighting and heating equipment.

A well-maintained habitat is a reflection of attentive ownership. Your skink will feel secure, active, and healthy, and you’ll enjoy watching its personality flourish. There’s a unique satisfaction in observing a lizard that clearly loves its environment—like it’s giving you a little nod of approval with every contented bask.

Feeding and Nutrition

If there’s one thing that gets a Blue-Tongued Skink really excited, it’s food. Honestly, these lizards have appetites that could rival a small dog, but with a little knowledge, you can make sure they’re eating a balanced, nutritious diet that keeps them healthy, active, and happy. Feeding a Blue-Tongued Skink isn’t just about tossing in random veggies or meat—it’s an opportunity to observe behavior, learn preferences, and even bond a little. Trust me, when a skink flicks its tongue at a fresh piece of carrot or sniffs a juicy worm, it’s like it’s saying, “Ah, you’ve got this right, human.”

Diet Basics

Blue-Tongued Skinks are omnivores, which means their meals should include both animal protein and plant matter. In the wild, they’d eat insects, snails, small rodents, fruits, and vegetables—all depending on what’s available in their habitat. Captive diets aim to replicate this variety.

Key components:

• Protein: Crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, earthworms, and occasionally lean cooked meats like chicken or turkey.
• Vegetables: Leafy greens (collard, kale, dandelion), squash, carrots, bell peppers.
• Fruits: Berries, apples, melons, and mango—offered sparingly because sugar can be tricky.
• Commercial diets: High-quality reptile pellets designed for omnivorous lizards can supplement fresh foods.

It’s important to rotate foods. Skinks are intelligent enough to notice repetition, and variety prevents nutritional deficiencies. Plus, watching them choose between different options is strangely satisfying—you’ll notice their favorite colors or textures almost immediately.

Feeding Schedule

Unlike some lizards that eat constantly, Blue-Tongued Skinks do best with structured feeding:

• Juveniles: 5–6 small meals per week, focusing on higher protein to support growth.
• Adults: 3–4 meals per week, larger portions with balanced protein and vegetables.
• Observation: Skinks often indicate when they’re hungry—they’ll move to the feeding area, flick their tongue repeatedly, or even follow you around the enclosure.

Don’t be tempted to overfeed, even if your skink seems eager. They can gain weight quickly, which can stress their joints and organs. Portion control, along with variety, is key.

Supplements and Vitamins

In captivity, skinks may not get all the nutrients they need from food alone, so supplementation is essential.

• Calcium: Dust insects with calcium powder 2–3 times a week to prevent metabolic bone disease.
• Multivitamins: Use a reptile-specific multivitamin once a week.
• Vitamin D3: If your skink has limited access to natural UVB light, supplementation may be necessary, but overdoing it can be harmful—consult a vet for dosage.

Watching a Blue-Tongued Skink accept supplements isn’t as weird as it sounds. Many owners mix powdered supplements with wet foods, creating a tasty, nutrient-packed treat that their lizard gobbles up without hesitation.

Foods to Avoid and Safety Tips

Not everything in your kitchen or pet store is safe for a Blue-Tongued Skink. Some foods can cause serious health issues or upset stomachs:

Avoid:

• Avocado (toxic)
• Rhubarb (toxic)
• Citrus in large amounts (can cause digestive upset)
• High-fat or processed meats
• Iceberg lettuce (nutritionally poor)

Tips:

• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Offer food at room temperature—cold food can upset digestion.
• Remove uneaten food after a few hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Many skink owners find that creating visually appealing meals helps encourage healthy eating habits. I’ve seen skinks cautiously inspect a platter of chopped vegetables and then dive in like it’s a feast worthy of royalty. Presentation matters, it seems, even to a reptile.

Observing Feeding Behavior

Feeding time isn’t just practical—it’s a window into your skink’s personality. Some nibble delicately, savoring each bite, while others snatch up food with gusto. Some skinks even develop preferences for certain insects or veggies, and noting these preferences can make future meal planning easier. Over time, feeding becomes an interactive experience that strengthens the bond between owner and lizard.

Health, Common Problems, and Lifespan

Blue-Tongued Skinks are remarkably hardy reptiles, but like any pet, they come with their own set of health considerations. Understanding what keeps them healthy—and what can go wrong—is essential if you want your scaly companion to live a long, vibrant life. These lizards may seem low-maintenance at first glance, but a little attention to detail goes a long way. Trust me, there’s nothing quite as rewarding as watching a Blue-Tongued Skink thrive, basking lazily on a rock, tongue flicking in contentment, knowing it’s all because of the care you’ve provided.

Typical Lifespan and Growth

Blue-Tongued Skinks are long-lived compared to many other reptiles, which makes them serious companions.

• Average lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity, sometimes even longer with excellent care.
• Juvenile growth: Skinks grow rapidly in their first few years, gaining length and weight steadily.
• Adult size: Most reach 18–24 inches in length, depending on species and diet.
  

Watching a skink grow is genuinely fascinating. You start noticing subtle changes—thicker tails, more defined banding, even small personality quirks emerging over time. It’s almost like having a living, breathing timeline of development in your living room.

Common Health Issues

Even though they’re generally hardy, Blue-Tongued Skinks can develop problems if their environment, diet, or handling isn’t quite right. Some common issues include:

• Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Often caused by insufficient calcium or UVB exposure. Symptoms include soft bones, lethargy, and twitching.
• Respiratory infections: Usually linked to low temperatures or high humidity. Look for wheezing, mucus, or labored breathing.
• Parasites: Both internal (worms) and external (mites). Regular vet checks help prevent serious infestations.
• Shedding problems: Incomplete sheds can lead to retained skin around toes, tail tips, or eyes. Proper humidity and hiding spots prevent this.
• Obesity: Overfeeding or inadequate exercise can lead to unhealthy weight gain and joint stress.

Recognizing early signs is crucial. A skink that stops eating, becomes lethargic, or shows abnormal movements isn’t just “being moody”—it’s telling you something’s off. Regular observation and interaction make these warning signs much easier to spot.

Preventative Care

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when dealing with reptiles. A few habits make all the difference:

• Routine vet check-ups: Ideally, once a year, or sooner if you notice anything unusual.
• Enclosure cleanliness: Regularly remove waste, sanitize water bowls, and rotate substrate as needed.
• Proper diet: Balanced meals with adequate protein, vegetables, fruits, and supplements.
• Temperature and lighting: Ensure basking spots, UVB light, and cooler areas are maintained for thermoregulation.
• Observation: Watch for changes in appetite, behavior, or appearance. Daily attention helps catch small issues before they become serious.

Many experienced owners swear that knowing your skink’s habits is the best preventative tool. Once you understand what’s “normal” for your lizard, even subtle changes stand out immediately, allowing you to intervene before problems escalate.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Being proactive is key, and a little knowledge goes a long way in preventing serious issues. Watch for:

• Lack of appetite for more than a day or two
• Swelling, sores, or unusual lumps
• Discoloration or retained skin during shedding
• Excessive lethargy or unusual hiding behavior
• Wheezing, coughing, or abnormal breathing

Addressing these early usually leads to faster recovery and less stress for both you and your pet.

The Reward of Healthy Care

There’s a special satisfaction in watching a Blue-Tongued Skink move confidently through a well-maintained terrarium, basking lazily under a warm light, tongue flicking in curious observation. It’s a visible, tangible reward for attentive care. Their longevity allows you to really get to know them, understand their quirks, and develop a bond that grows deeper each year. Providing the right environment, nutrition, and attention doesn’t just keep them alive—it allows them to thrive in ways that are genuinely fascinating to observe.

A healthy skink isn’t just a pet—it’s a little personality-filled creature that responds to care, attention, and even affection in subtle ways. And let’s be honest, that’s one of the biggest joys of keeping these lizards: the satisfaction of nurturing a creature that rewards your effort with trust, curiosity, and those unforgettable flashes of brilliant blue.

Why a Blue-Tongued Skink Could Be Your Next Pet

So, after diving into everything from their stunning blue tongues to their unique personalities, their dietary preferences, and even their habitat needs, you might be asking yourself: “Is a Blue-Tongued Skink really the right pet for me?” And the honest answer is—if you’re ready for a long-term, hands-on companion that’s as fascinating as it is friendly—the answer is probably yes. These lizards aren’t just pets; they’re little personalities wrapped in glossy scales, with quirks, moods, and even a touch of playful mischief that will surprise you more than once.

There’s something inherently rewarding about owning a Blue-Tongued Skink. Unlike pets that demand constant attention, skinks offer a subtler kind of companionship. They interact on their own terms, showing curiosity, basking in your presence, and occasionally giving you that unforgettable tongue flash that feels almost like a greeting. You start to notice little details over time—the way one likes a certain hiding spot, another’s gentle flicks when exploring new food, or how they react to seasonal changes in temperature or light. It’s like watching a story unfold right in your living room, a quiet narrative of growth, personality, and trust.

But let’s not sugarcoat it—owning one isn’t just about fun and fascination. It’s a commitment. These lizards can live 15 to 20 years, sometimes even longer. They require proper habitat setup, careful temperature and lighting regulation, regular feeding schedules, and consistent observation to ensure they remain healthy. But here’s the thing: all that care is genuinely worth it. The more you invest in understanding your skink’s needs, the more rewarding the experience becomes. You’ll witness a creature that not only survives but truly thrives under your care.

The Blue-Tongued Skink’s appeal is also deeply visual. Their color patterns, body structure, and especially that vivid tongue are conversation starters, curiosity sparks, and even little bursts of joy when you least expect them. Imagine sitting in the evening, reading a book, and glancing over to see your skink lazily stretching under a warm lamp, tongue flicking at the slightest movement—it’s a small, everyday spectacle that never really loses its charm.

Beyond aesthetics, though, there’s an educational element that makes owning a skink incredibly enriching. Watching them eat, bask, explore, and even shed teaches patience, observation skills, and a deeper understanding of reptile biology. You learn to notice subtle signs of health, behavior changes, and personality quirks that you might otherwise overlook. In a way, they make you a better observer, a more attentive caretaker, and honestly, a more appreciative human of the little wonders in the animal kingdom.

At the end of the day, a Blue-Tongued Skink is more than just a pet—it’s a companion with a personality, a touch of wildness, and a surprising amount of charm. They’re approachable enough for beginners willing to put in the care, yet engaging enough to captivate even seasoned reptile enthusiasts. They reward patience, consistency, and attention with trust, curiosity, and that irreplaceable sense of connection that comes from truly knowing a living creature.

So, if you’ve been thinking about adding a reptile to your home, a Blue-Tongued Skink is hard to beat. They’re friendly, they’re fascinating, and yes—their blue tongue is absolutely unforgettable. With the right habitat, diet, and care, they’ll not only become a remarkable part of your household—they’ll become a tiny, scaly friend whose personality grows in ways you might never have expected. And honestly, once you’ve experienced that little flash of blue and that gentle, patient gaze, you’ll wonder why you didn’t fall in love with them sooner.