Two quick questions!

[Toria Dawn]

Hey I have been wondering for a while a question about shedding. I thought I'd read here that as adults, skinks shed around every fourth months. Is this accurate? Royal shed 2 months ago and is just going into another shed now. Does this mean he is younger than 2 years? Or does it vary?

My second question is regarding substrate. I've noticed a few people have recently changed to aspen shavings, and they say their skinks love it. I am using plantation soil (holds moisture and I live in a very dry climate) mixed with cocoa bark chips. He digs in it but doesn't really burrow. What are some of the benefits of aspen shavings? Is it cheaper?

Thanks a lot!!!

[StaceyLeigh]

My adults shed about every 3-4 months, but I think this is a variable thing. As for the Aspen it is cheaper here (NY). I like it for the warmer months as they can bury in it easier, but in the dry winter months I have to use repti-bark and moss to increase the humidity. The aspen is much too dry for winter.

[Fatal_S]

Reptiles shed based on a few things, but the main thing is how fast they're growing. Because babies tend to grow quickly in comparison to adults, they shed far more often. But if an adult was skinny or undersized, and is now growing into a proper size, they would also shed more often.

Aspen is cheap, easy to clean, and great for burrowing. But it's also quite dry, so not always the best option. I'd suggest trying it sometime if you'd like, and seeing what works best for you and your skink.

[Toria Dawn]

Ok thanks for the info!

[Toria Dawn]

I am probably going to try aspen shavings this week, but I am also going to buy some sort of smaller humidifier. As for his shed being relatively frequent, it could be because of what Fatal said an he might have been undersized when I got him - he did come from a little tiny tank in a pet store eating mostly crickets, to his big tank now eating a ton of food and being spoiled!!!!