Leopard Geckos

Care of Leopard Geckos  

Also known as Leos, the Leopard gecko, has become a popular pet in the United States due to their docile temperament and relative ease of care. Native to the southern portion of Asia (mainly Afghanistan, parts of India, parts of Iran, and Pakistan), this crepuscular lizard is commonly found scurrying across the ground. They are active at night or during the twilight hours, but will occasionally bask in sunlight. The rocky, dry grasslands skirting the desert regions are home to this species. Despite a partially desert existence, Leopard geckos do brumate naturally in the wild during the cold season when temperatures hover in the 50’s. Most of the Leopard geckos found in the pet trade are captive bred and even come in fun colors and patterns called "morphs".

As hatchlings, these lizards measure only 2-3 inches long and reach an adult length of 8-11 inches. Their small stature, visually appealing yellow and white coloration with black spots (normally, although young geckos may be more striped), and life span of 10-20 years makes Leopard geckos an ideal pet for many apartment residents. The skin on the back has a bumpy texture from the nose to the tail tip whereas the abdomen is surprisingly smooth and nearly transparent. This species is capable of autotomy ("tail dropping") when frightened to distract potential predators. "Dropped" tails will grow back although the pattern may not match exactly and it will not have the bumpy texture.

Special Characteristics

Longevity:  In captivity, leopard geckos have been known to live over 20 years with proper care. They become sexually mature between 16-24 months, but may not be ready to breed until their third year. 

Temperament:  Leopard geckos make wonderful pets.  The are generally very docile, and can learn to accept handling.  They rarely bite, and tend to move slowly once acclimated to their surroundings.  They tend to hide during daylight hours. 

Anatomy:  Leopard geckos have eyelids that can blink.  They have toenails, and cannot climb glass. 

Captive Cage Requirements:

Lighting

Ultraviolet B is required to maintain healthy leopard geckos.   The best source of  UVB is the sun, but special bulbs, (fluorescent such as Reptisun 2.0) can be purchased from a reptile shop.  The fluorescent bulb must be placed no more than 12 inches from the basking site, and should be on a timer to provide about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness.  It must be replaced every 6-9 months, because even though the visible light is emitted, the UVB fades.  Light bulbs with a screw –in attachment end (even those sold as “full spectrum” bulbs) provide heat, but not UVB.  The exception is the mercury vapor bulb.  It emits UVA and UVB radiation and heat.  These bulbs are to intense for gecko habitats. There is significant debate over whether Leopard geckos require UVB for maintaining health but it is recommended by Chicago Exotics to help prevent issues with egg laying and prevent secondary nutritional hyperparathyroidism (also known as metabolic bone disease).

Leopard geckos are easily maintained in 15-20 gallon glass aquariums or other enclosures of a similar size. Two geckos can be kept in a 15-gallon enclosure so long as both are female or one is male. Two males will fight and stress each other out. A 20-gallon tank can comfortably house 3 geckos. A ratio of 2 – 3 females to one male is prefered.

Other options for enclosures include sweater box style containers that can be modified for ventilation, heating, and lighting. Some breeders and owners of larger collections will keep their geckos in rack systems that can be purchased or fabricated. Leopard geckos are predominantly terrestrial with a weak climbing ability which should be taken into consideration during enclosure selection.

A naturalistic terrarium can be created for Leopard geckos using live potted plants such as Sansevierias, grasses, and bromeliads which stay relatively small. Fake plants can be used safely and give the same effect as natural plants. Potted plants should always be herbicide and insecticide free in case of accidental ingestion of the plant or soil by the reptile. Plants are not only aesthetically pleasing to owners but offers enrichment and security for the geckos in the enclosure. It is ideal to supply as much shrubbery and foliage as possible.

Hides in the forms of rocks caves (not heat caves), small cork logs, and other creative hides should be placed in at least two locations in the enclosure. Preferably, one hide area should be provided on the warm end and one on the cooler end to promote thermoregulation with minimal stress on the animal.

Branches, bark, and some small rocks should be added to the enclosure for enrichment and basking purposes. Geckos are naturally found running along rocky terrain with tufts of grass. Leopard geckos are a crepuscular species and will enjoy basking at times.

Water

Provide a water dish that is large enough for the whole gecko to soak its body.  Lizards often defecate in their water, so it must be replaced daily and the dish disinfected at least once a week. Periodically, fresh, warm water soaking is recommended to aid in shedding as pictured below.  The water should be shallow and never leave your lizard alone while soaking.