What Do Geckos Eat? The Most Important Principles of Nutrition

Geckos are fascinating reptiles that are widely kept as pets due to their impressive appearance and relatively low maintenance. However, one of the most important aspects of caring for geckos is their diet. It is crucial to understand what geckos eat in order to ensure their health and well-being. In this article, we will explore the dietary requirements of geckos, focusing on two commonly kept species: ciliated geckos and leopard geckos.

Ciliated geckos, also known as crested geckos (Correlophus ciliatus), are native to New Caledonia. These geckos are omnivorous, which means they eat a combination of plant and animal matter. On the other hand, leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a diet of insects, invertebrates, and occasionally small vertebrates.

Understanding the specific dietary needs of each gecko species is crucial for maintaining their optimal health. Let’s delve deeper into the key aspects of gecko nutrition.

1. Variety is key: Geckos require a diverse and balanced diet to meet their nutritional requirements. For ciliated geckos, their diet should consist of both insects and fruit purees or nectar. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and waxworms are commonly fed to ciliated geckos. Additionally, providing a variety of fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and bananas, ensures they receive necessary vitamins and minerals. On the other hand, leopard geckos primarily require live insects as their main food source. This can include crickets, mealworms, superworms, and small dubia roaches.

2. Gut-loading and dusting: Insects form a significant portion of the diet for both ciliated and leopard geckos. It is essential to supplement the insects with the necessary nutrients before feeding them to your gecko. This process is called gut-loading, which involves feeding the insects a nutritious diet a few hours before offering them to your gecko. This way, the gecko will obtain all the essential nutrients from the insects. Additionally, the insects should be dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 powder to ensure the gecko receives adequate calcium for healthy bone development.

3. Insect size: When feeding live insects to geckos, it is crucial to consider the size of the prey compared to the gecko’s mouth size. The size of the insects should be appropriate for the gecko to prevent choking or other digestive issues. For ciliated geckos, the size of the insects should range from small to medium-sized, depending on the age and size of the gecko. Leopard geckos can consume larger insects, but it is still important to avoid offering prey that is too large for them to handle.

4. Avoid toxic insects: Certain insects can be toxic to geckos and should be avoided. For example, fireflies and wild-caught insects can contain harmful toxins that can be fatal to geckos. Stick to commercially bred and safe insects as well as reputable suppliers to ensure the safety of your gecko.

5. Supplements: In addition to gut-loading and dusting insects, geckos may require additional supplementation. This is especially important for leopard geckos, as they have higher calcium requirements. Calcium and multivitamin supplements specifically formulated for reptiles can be added to your gecko’s diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.

6. Water requirements: Geckos also need access to fresh, clean water at all times. Providing a shallow dish of water in their enclosure allows them to drink and maintain hydration. Ensure that the water is changed regularly to prevent bacteria growth.

7. Feeding frequency: The frequency of feeding varies depending on the age, species, and metabolism of the gecko. Generally, adult geckos can be fed every other day, while young geckos may require daily feedings. Observe your gecko’s behavior and body condition to determine the appropriate feeding schedule.

It is important to note that while geckos have specific dietary requirements, individual differences and preferences may exist. It is crucial to observe your gecko’s behavior and consult with a veterinarian specializing in reptile care for personalized advice.

In conclusion, understanding what geckos eat is vital for their overall health and well-being. Ciliated geckos are omnivorous, while leopard geckos are primarily insectivorous. Both species require a diverse and balanced diet, including insects, fruits, and supplementation. Providing a varied diet, gut-loading and dusting insects, and ensuring access to clean water are essential principles of gecko nutrition. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your gecko receives the necessary nutrients for a healthy and thriving life.