BLUE TONGUE SKINKS

Okay, I cannot believe this.

I watched a documentary about monitor lizards a few days ago, and one of the things they talked about was target training. They said that any lizard could do it, but monitors learn it the fastest. Today, I thought, "Why not?" So I took a large pen(which my dogs got a hold of and broke, so now it's just the outside) and broke up some pieces of dry cat food. I started by putting the pen in front of the food, so that she had to tap it to get to the food. After that I tapped it on her nose very lightly, then put the food in front of her. She caught on really quickly! After a while she started taking a few steps toward the pen and giving it a tap. We went like this until she was full. I found it amazing that she caught on in less than 10 minutes. Does anyone else here do target training? I am super exited.

That's really cool! You should make a video. =)

Skinks are smart! =D

They seem plenty smart enough to make the connection but frequently are not motivated enough. I've tried it for a few months(using superworms which he only gets after touching the target). Response varies from half hearted eyeing if full to running from across the tank if hungry.

However-I can't stop mine from simply attacking the target(round wooden ball tied to a chopstick) despite continual efforts to get him to simply walk up and touch it consistently...seems to be the natural tendency. It might help if I used something besides superworms as a treat.

Musoke- Once I have a better quality video camera I will!

Critterguy, Thanks for your insight! My skink hasn't tried to attack it. Maybe because your target is moving more in the air it seems like a threat?

WC: No-not a threat. He's basically trying to eat it. However-BTS do have a particular liking for round things(eggs for example) so perhaps it'd be better to use a different target.

CG- Good idea. Maybe try something like just the chopstick?

Btw-I just watched that documentary...lizard kings. Quite impressive system they have there. I'd expect BTS to be able to accomplish the task set forth by the psychologist in the lab experiments.

Would love to see a video of your target training. I am interested to see it.

There is another thread that covers this topic. I remember it well.

Thanks guys!
Critterguy, it is quite interesting! I liked it.
smsararas2, I would love to get a video! I'm going to try to find my video camera now.

I just made a video! I'll post it as soon as I could.