Black Tree Skink (Emoia nigra)

Scientific Name: Emoia nigra
Common Name: Black Tree Skink

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Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) in total length, with a slender body and long tail adapted for climbing.

Appearance: Black Tree Skinks are uniformly dark brown to black, with smooth, glossy scales. The tail is long and prehensile-like, aiding in climbing, while the body is streamlined for arboreal movement. Juveniles may appear slightly lighter with subtle patterning that fades with age.

Distribution: Native to parts of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and surrounding islands.

Habitat: This species is arboreal, inhabiting lowland forests, shrublands, and mangrove areas. They are often found climbing tree trunks, branches, and shrubs. In captivity, they require vertical or semi-vertical enclosures with climbing structures, hiding spots, and basking areas.

Behaviour: Black Tree Skinks are diurnal and active. They are agile climbers, alert, and may be shy in the presence of humans. They are generally solitary in captivity but display natural foraging and climbing behaviours.

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Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented enclosure at least 24 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (60 × 45 × 60 cm) for a single adult. Include climbing branches, cork bark, vines, and secure hiding spots. Multiple levels and vertical surfaces enhance environmental enrichment.

Temperature & Humidity:

• Basking area: 85–90°F (29–32°C)

• Ambient temperature: 75–85°F (24–29°C)

• Night temperatures: 70–75°F (21–24°C)

• Maintain moderate humidity at 60–80%, with regular light misting to simulate forest conditions.

Lighting: Provide full-spectrum lighting with moderate UVB (2–5%) on a 12-hour cycle to support metabolism and general health.

Diet: Offer a varied insectivorous diet including crickets, roaches, fruit flies, and small mealworms. Feed juveniles daily and adults every 2–3 days. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements regularly.

Behaviour in Captivity: These skinks are active climbers, alert, and inquisitive. They benefit from multiple climbing surfaces and hiding spots to display natural behaviours.

Special Considerations: This is a small, active arboreal species that requires vertical space, high humidity, and environmental enrichment. Avoid overcrowding as they can be territorial.

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Taxonomy Note

The Black Tree Skink (Emoia nigra) belongs to the Scincidae family and the genus Emoia, a group of arboreal skinks native to Southeast Asia and Oceania. They are valued for their climbing abilities and streamlined appearance.

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Genetics Note

There are no recognized morphs or selectively bred variants for Emoia nigra. Natural variation is limited to subtle differences in shade and scale gloss.