BLUE-TONGUED SKINK
TILIQUA SP.
The namesake bright blue tongue is used by this lizard as a warning signal. When threatened, it would open its mouth wide and stick out its tongue, which can confuse the predator or tell another skink to stay away.
Blue-tongued Skinks are diurnal, which means they are active during the day. They forage for food on the ground, and eat a variety of foods including insects, snails, flowers, fruits, and berries.
There are eight species of Blue-tongued Skinks. Each species lives in specific habitats in specific regions and countries.
Did you know?
Scientists studied their mouths to determine why their tongues are blue. They found the blue tongues and pink areas inside the mouth reflect ultraviolet (UV) light. Since diurnal lizards can see UV light, this warning display may be an adaptation for communicating with other Blue-tongued Skinks as well as startling predators.
Conservation status
LEAST CONCERN (LC):
Less likely to become endangered anytime soon.
AUDIO TOUR
