Fire Skink not active/eating

Question
Hello,
I was given three fire skinks two weeks ago. They are all 5 years old and about 12 inches long. I set them up in a 25 gallon tank with coconut shell substrate, misted daily, a hiding log and a shallow water dish. The temp has averaged about 75-80 degrees with it being cooler at night. I was told by the previous owner to feed them superworms, just to leave them in their container in the cage and the skinks would eat them. However, I find that one of my skinks is acting very listless, eyes closed most of the time, and not eating as well. His tail also seems to be getting skinnier. I am worried that he may be ill or maybe just not eating as he should. Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Lauren,

You need to increase their heat, your current temperature is too cool for that species. Their entire metabolism will slow down in sub-optimal temperatures causing a decrease in appetite, activity and immune system function.

The general, ambient temperature of the tank can be around 80F but they need a "hot spot" or basking area that is at least 10 degree warmer, about 90 -95 F. You can achieve this with a heat bulb or ceramic heat emitter placed over one end of the cage. That will provide a suitable basking area while leaving a cooler end for them to move to as well. They can better regulate their body temperature that way.  As they are primarily ground dwellers, you need to measure the temperature at the ground surface.

I hope that change brings him around. Fire skinks are one of my favourite species :)

I've linked a brief care sheet here

http://www.herpcenter.com/reptile-caresheets/fire-skink.html