Skink Id.

[Jelandusn]

Hi guys. There's a skink I went to see but I'm not sure about getting her. I'm interested in a merauke and I'm not sure this one is. Also, she looks a little deformed. Do they always have this lump from back to tail? I don't remember the ones I've seen having that. He's had her 3 years and she's been on cedar.

[tcopitho]

Hi, I dont see a picture attached?

They should not have lumps and bumps, its possibly a birth defect or some form of MBD which can generally be managed and halted with proper diet. So if thats a deal breaker mostly up to you and likely does not effect the animals quality of life. Could be a good idea to get some xrays from a vet just as a precaution to see whats going on in there, but if its in the tail area behind the hip, that may not even be necessary.

Id be happy to take a crack at IDing once you get a picture up. best of luck.

[Jelandusn]

[tcopitho]

Definitely a Merauke. Shes lumpy for sure. There is the obvious issues around the hips, but also seems to be something with the ribs under her left front leg, and neck area, could be the angle. Could also be the angle, but where is her right front leg...? I would certainly be asking to see more photos, you could be taking on a potential rescue situation, so just make sure you get all the info, and know what you might be getting into. The lumpy ones can still make good pets... just lumpier

If I got this one Id probably want an xray from the vet, and an educated opinion, just for my own piece of mind.

Otherwise she looks a bit dry and has some stuck shed on her back, but her face is clean and her mouth and nose looks clear, so she doesn't seem in too bad of shape that way.

[splashy07]

This is definitely a rescue situation. Her life up until possibly now? has been torture. First off, cedar is a huge no-no for Meraukes, and gigas types in general as they need a substrate that holds humidity. Actually, cedar is a bad choice for any reptile. Keep it for your hamsters. Rodents. Whatever, just not reptiles. Her (?) nutrition so far is also questionable as those lumps are definitely not normal. Seems to have had nutritionally lacking food growing up as it appears to have signs of MBD. I would praise you for taking this on but be prepared, you will be taking on an animal that has not had a very happy life and could have problems that require veterinary care that may be quite expensive. I'm hoping this is being given to you and not sold. I'm praying this animal falls into good hands! Could still be a very rewarding pet, and I'm sure a thankful one.

[Janella]

Oh poor sweet baby. Looks not well cared for at all. Let us know what you decide to do. I definitely agree with all the previous comments.

[Jelandusn]

As sad as it makes me, I decided to pass. It is too much to take on as a first time blue tongue skink owner. I already have my peters banded who isn't eating. I think I can't handle taking on another sick animal. I kind of want my first blue tongue to be healthy and friendly. I feel really bad but all I can do is hope she finds the right owner who will give her the care she needs.

[alichamp]

As sad as it makes me, I decided to pass. It is too much to take on as a first time blue tongue skink owner. I already have my peters banded who isn't eating. I think I can't handle taking on another sick animal. I kind of want my first blue tongue to be healthy and friendly. I feel really bad but all I can do is hope she finds the right owner who will give her the care she needs.

I completely understand. As much as you want to rescue them, they are a really big commitment and sometimes if you don't have the experience it's difficult to offer what they need. I understand it would have been a very difficult decision but I think if you are not sure what you are getting in to or if you can provide what's needed, ultimately it's a responsible decision.

[Janella]

I couldn't agree more. You are doing the right thing.

Janella