How do I take good care of my Gecko?

Geckos are reptiles that belong to the Saurian family and are commonly kept as pets in terrariums. They are sociable, easy to care for, and reproduce easily, which is why they are increasingly popular as pets. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about taking good care of your gecko.

1. What is a Gecko?

The Gekkonidae family consists of approximately 800 species of geckos, but only some of them are available as pets. The most common ones include:

– Leopard Gecko: This is the most popular gecko species in terrariums. It originates from rocky deserts in arid regions like Iraq and northern India. Leopard geckos have a wide range of color patterns and variations, which are known as “phases.” One unique feature of leopard geckos is their movable eyelids, unlike other geckos that have only a transparent membrane covering their eyes. They also do not have lamellae on their toes but have claws instead. They can grow up to 20 centimeters in length and can live up to 20 years if well cared for.

– Tokay Gecko: This is one of the largest gecko species, reaching approximately 30 centimeters in length. It originates from forests in India and Southeast Asia and is known for its distinctive two-syllable call, “to-kay,” which gives it its name. Tokay geckos have powerful jaws, and their bites can be painful. They have small orange dots on a gray-blue background.

– Golden Dust Gecko: Slightly smaller than the leopard gecko, this species is native to the island of Madagascar. It is diurnal, which means its pupils are round and not slit-like. Its name comes from its greenish-yellow color with small golden dots.

– Giant Day Gecko: This diurnal gecko also originates from Madagascar and can grow between 25 and 30 centimeters in length. It typically has a light green color, darker on the back, with some orange spots. However, “high red” phase geckos have a noticeable red tint along their backs.

2. Choosing the Right Terrarium

Geckos can be kept alone, in pairs, or even in trios, but it is not recommended to house two males together as fights can occur.

A single small gecko can be housed in a terrarium measuring 60x30x30 centimeters. However, larger gecko species like the Tokay or the giant day gecko would feel more comfortable in a larger terrarium measuring around 80x50x50 centimeters. If you have multiple geckos, the terrarium should be even larger, ideally measuring 120x60x60 centimeters.

Sterile sand is a common substrate for leopard geckos. However, its use is controversial due to the risk of impaction if ingested by the gecko. Alternative substrates include reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile. These substrates are easier to clean and do not pose a risk if accidentally ingested.

It is important to provide hiding spots for geckos. You can use various types of decorations such as caves, logs, or artificial plants to create a natural and stimulating environment for your gecko. These hiding spots are essential for geckos to feel secure and reduce stress.

Proper temperature and lighting are also crucial for your gecko’s well-being. Geckos are ectothermic, which means they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. You should provide a temperature gradient within the terrarium, with a warm side and a cool side. The warm side should have a temperature between 85-90°F (29-32°C), while the cool side should be around 75-80°F (24-27°C). You can achieve this by using heat lamps or heating pads.

UVB lighting is also important for geckos to metabolize calcium and maintain healthy bones. Make sure to provide a UVB light source for 10-12 hours a day. It is recommended to use a UVB tube that covers two-thirds of the terrarium’s length.

3. Proper Nutrition and Feeding

Feeding your gecko a balanced diet is essential for its overall health. Leopard geckos are insectivores and primarily eat various insects, such as crickets, mealworms, wax worms, and silkworms. It is essential to provide a varied diet to ensure a good nutritional balance. Dusting the insects with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement is also crucial to prevent calcium deficiency.

For other gecko species like the Tokay or the giant day gecko, their diet may include a variety of insects, as well as fruit purees or baby food. Calcium and vitamin supplementation is also necessary for these species.

It is important to provide a shallow dish of clean water at all times. Geckos may not drink directly from the dish but will often lick water droplets from the terrarium’s walls or plants. Misting the enclosure with water using a spray bottle can also help maintain the humidity levels required for your gecko’s well-being.

4. Breeding Geckos

Breeding geckos can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful preparation and knowledge. Before attempting to breed geckos, it is important to ensure that you have a suitable pair or group that is sexually mature and healthy.

Creating the right breeding environment is essential. Adjusting the temperature and lighting conditions to simulate the natural breeding season can stimulate mating behaviors. Providing proper nesting areas, such as moist hides or egg-laying boxes, is also important.

After successful mating, female geckos will lay eggs. Depending on the species, the eggs may need to be incubated at specific temperatures and humidity levels to ensure proper development. It is important to research the specific requirements for your gecko species and follow appropriate incubation protocols.

5. Routine Health Care

Regular observation and monitoring of your gecko’s health are crucial. Look out for any signs of illness or injury, such as changes in appetite, weight loss, lethargy, or abnormal behavior. If you notice any concerning symptoms, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian experienced in reptile care.

Routine maintenance of the terrarium is also important. Clean the enclosure regularly to remove any waste or debris, and disinfect it periodically to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Replace the substrate regularly and ensure proper humidity levels to prevent skin and respiratory issues.

Conclusion

Taking good care of your gecko involves providing the right environment, temperature, lighting, nutrition, and routine health care. It is important to do thorough research on the specific needs of your gecko species to ensure its well-being and longevity. By following these guidelines and providing a suitable habitat, you can enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding experience as a gecko owner.