Spiny Tail Water Skink (Tropidophorus baconi )

Common Name: Bacon’s Water Skink
Scientific Name: Tropidophorus baconi
Source: WC

Adult Size: 20-30cm

Native Range: Philippines

Enclosure: Semi-aquatic terrarium; minimum around 60 × 45 × 45 cm with water area, rocks, and hiding spots

Heating: Basking 30  °C Ambient 24-26 °C; ; night drop around 20-22 °C

Humidity: 70-90 % with regular misting and good ventilation

UVB: low out out UVB

Diet: Carnivorous; insects, small invertebrates, and other small aquatic prey

Water: Shallow water area for soaking and hunting; kept clean and refreshed regularly

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Tropidophorus baconi, known as Bacon’s Water Skink, is a semi-aquatic lizard native to the Philippines. Members of the genus Tropidophorus are commonly referred to as water skinks due to their strong association with streams and damp forest habitats.

This species has a slender, elongated body with keeled scales that aid in swimming and provide protection. Colouration is generally dark brown to black with lighter markings along the sides, helping it blend into rocky streambeds and forested waterways.

Bacon’s Water Skinks are diurnal and rely on both terrestrial and aquatic spaces for foraging, feeding on insects and small aquatic prey. In captivity, semi-aquatic setups with clean water, rocks, hiding areas, and maintained humidity replicate the species’ natural environment, supporting normal behaviour and activity.