The African Fire Skink (Mochlus fernandi) has a glossy bronze back and vivid red flanks patterned with black and white. This ground-dwelling lizard is an enthusiastic burrower, making a well-planted enclosure with deep substrate particularly rewarding to watch. It is also commonly listed under the older names Lepidothyris fernandi and Riopa fernandi.
At a Glance
| Origin |
West and Central Africa; forest and woodland habitats. |
| Adult size |
Approximately 30–38 cm, including the tail. |
| Lifespan |
Potentially 15–20 years with suitable long-term care. |
| Activity |
Mainly active by day, but often hidden beneath leaf litter or substrate. |
Enclosure
Provide at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm for one adult, with a larger floor area preferred. Include 10–15 cm of burrowing substrate, such as a suitable soil and coconut-fibre blend, plus leaf litter, cork and sheltered retreats. Position heavy furnishings securely so digging cannot undermine them. Keep the enclosure escape-proof.
Temperature & Humidity
| Basking surface |
Approximately 33–35°C. |
| Cooler area |
Approximately 24–29°C, with a clear temperature gradient. |
| Night |
Approximately 21–24°C. |
| Humidity |
Around 60–70%, with moist burrowing areas and good ventilation. |
Control heating with a suitable thermostat and check conditions using digital gauges. Keep deeper substrate lightly moist without making it sodden; allow the surface to dry between mistings.
Lighting
Provide a regular day/night cycle, suitable UVB lighting and shaded retreats. Lamp strength and mounting distance must suit the enclosure and mesh, so ask our reptile team to help match the setup.
Diet
Offer varied, appropriately sized live insects, including crickets, locusts, roaches and worms. Feed the insects well before offering them and use suitable calcium and multivitamin supplements according to their instructions. Young skinks need feeding more frequently than adults; adjust portions to body condition. Keep a shallow dish of fresh water available.
Handling & Temperament
Often shy at first, a Fire Skink needs time to settle. Some tolerate brief, gentle handling, but they are quick and slippery. Support the body close to a safe surface and never grab the tail, which can be shed. Wash hands after contact.
Compatibility & Breeding
Housing singly is the simplest approach. Never house males together, and do not mix species. Fire Skinks lay eggs; breeding should only be attempted with correctly sexed, established animals and a separate incubation and hatchling plan.
Routine Care
Check temperature, humidity, appetite and water daily. Remove waste and uneaten food promptly. Have the habitat running before collection, and ask our team for this animal's current size and feeding routine.
Click & Collect Only
Order online for collection from Newlands Reptile Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. We do not ship live animals. Wait for confirmation before travelling.
Individual markings may vary.
