Crocodile Skink Softens Heart

Jelo is an avowed herpe-phobe. He just can't find any affection in his heart for our slimier and scalier brothers and sisters. That is, until he found the red-eyed crocodile skink, tribolonotus gracilis. Upon seeing this wee creature, his heart grew three sizes bigger.

When seen from above, you get a sense of its armored and reptilian self. You're aware that you've got a mobile pine cone underfoot, and that you'd best step clear of it.





















But when viewed from almost any other angle, it's hard not to love it.















They are native to New Guinea and the surrounding islands, where they can be found on coconut plantations and in tropical forests. Here's one striking a coy pose for the camera. Tease.



















They are for sale as pets, but it looks like they aren't for beginner lizard keepers, and most for sale are wild-caught. I'll pass on owning crocodile skin, but I'll still covet it.






















Thanks, Jelo. Glad you could find a place in your heart for this diminutive lizard.