Red Eyed Crocodile Skink (Tribolonotus gracilis)

Tribolonotus gracilis, commonly known as the Red-eyed Crocodile Skink, is a small, prehistoric-looking lizard native to the humid rainforests of New Guinea. Belonging to the family Scincidae, this unique reptile is renowned for its dragon-like appearance—characterised by rough, keeled scales, pronounced dorsal spines, and most strikingly, bright orange-red rings around its eyes, giving it a fierce yet endearing look.

Despite its intimidating appearance, T. gracilis is a shy, ground-dwelling species that prefers to hide among leaf litter and fallen logs. It is largely insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, and is active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular). When threatened, it may freeze or emit a high-pitched squeak—a rare behaviour among reptiles.

Unusual among skinks, the Red-eyed Crocodile Skink exhibits parental care: females lay a single egg and have been observed guarding it, a trait not common in most lizard species. In captivity, they are popular among reptile enthusiasts due to their unique appearance, but they require high humidity, low light, and a naturalistic setup to thrive.