One of the most popular types of gecko is the leopard gecko. These interesting reptiles require a special habitat, specific care, and feeding.
One of the most popular types of gecko is the leopard gecko. The leopard gecko, or eublepharis macularius, is a member of the Gekkonidae family, and it is one of six hundred fifty varieties of lizards in the world, according to the "Oxford Family Encyclopedia" published by Oxford University Press in 1997. It says the gecko is found in hot, dry locations and is considered nocturnal. In its natural habitat the gecko comes out at night to feed on bugs and stays beneath rocks during daylight hours, according to the same book. The website "PetSupport USA Reptile Reference Library", in the article entitled "Leopard Gecko", says this beautifully colored gecko, which sports black, white, and gold markings, originates in Northern India, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
"Leopard Gecko" recommends specific housing requirements for a pet gecko. It says a ten gallon fish tank with a well ventilated lid makes a good habitat for one gecko. If you choose to have more than one gecko, it is recommended that you use a larger tank and have only one male. Males can be very territorial and may not get along when housed together.
Sand is no longer a healthy substrate for captive Leos. Various researchers have found that wild Leopard geckos feed primarily on rocks and weed patches where sand ingestion is minimal. That is not the case with home enclosures. crickets that are released within the enclosure become consumed while resting on the sand. Small amounts of sand get digested and some of it passes through the body without a problem. Unfortunantly though, some doesnt and becomes logged in the intestinal tract and becomes crystalized. Over a period of months or years, this sand accumulates and causes impaction. In most cases, it is too far progressed for the owner to stop it and the Leo dies
Another suggested material for a gecko habitat is bark for reptiles. These products can be found in most pet supply stores. Other reptile accessories, such as branches and trees, can also be purchased in pet stores. Since geckos are nocturnal reptiles that often become alarmed, strategic placement of rocks, branches, foliage, and trees will provide areas of cover.
According to "The Leopard Gecko - A Herpetocultural Star", written by Peta Spiess, leopard geckos need a box that will provide humidity in their habitat. This will help with shedding. Without humidity the skin will not come off as easily. Restriction of blood flow to the limbs can result in toe loss. The same article suggests an overturned plastic container with an opening. Peat or sphagnum moss beneath the box can be dampened regularly with a plant mister.
The surrounding air temperature for a gecko should be kept at approximately eighty-six degrees Fahrenheit during daylight hours and between seventy to seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit at night, according to "Leopard Gecko". It recommends a heating element for reptiles, under approximately one third of the habitat, so the gecko can adjust its body temperature when necessary. Also, during the day, a light for reptiles should be used to produce necessary heat. The same article suggests a timer to automatically turn on a basking light each day for about ten hours.
"Leopard Gecko" suggests feeding a diet of chopped meal worms and crickets, and a vitamin and calcium powder formulated especially for reptiles should be sprinkled on the food twice a week. Geckos often get into their water dishes, so the same article recommends a shallow container for water to prevent drowning.
A gecko that has been properly taken care of may live between twelve and eighteen years, and can grow to an approximate length of eight inches, says "Leopard Gecko". These interesting creatures make very unique pets, and they are a joy to own and care for.
