Olive Tree Skink (Dasia olivacea )

Common Name: Olive Tree Skink
Scientific Name: Dasia olivacea
Source: WC

Adult Size: Typically 25-35 cm total length

Native Range: Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and surrounding islands

Enclosure: Tall arboreal terrarium; minimum around 60 × 45 × 90 cm with branches, vines, and dense foliage for climbing

Heating: Basking area 32 °C; ambient 24-26 °C; night drop around 20-22 °C

Humidity: 65-80 % with regular misting and good airflow

UVB: Low to moderate UVB 

Diet: Omnivorous; insects, small invertebrates, and occasional fruit offered regularly

Water: Shallow water dish; misting provides additional drinking droplets

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Dasia olivacea, commonly called the Olive Tree Skink, is a slender, arboreal lizard native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Its glossy olive-green body provides excellent camouflage among leaves and branches in forest canopies.

This diurnal skink is highly active, frequently moving along branches and perching on vegetation while foraging for insects and other small prey. Its tail and agile limbs make it well-adapted for navigating vertical and horizontal surfaces in dense arboreal environments.

In captivity, Olive Tree Skinks thrive in tall enclosures with ample climbing structures, hiding spots, and maintained humidity. Providing a varied diet of insects and occasional fruit along with access to misted water helps replicate natural conditions and encourages healthy activity.