Leopard Gecko Care Sheet!

Leopard Geckos are amongst the most popular pet lizards!

This is due to their relative ease of care, high handleability, and docile temperament.

This, however, should not excuse being ignorant about their needs. Thus, we will break down the basics of Leopard Gecko care!

Heating

Like all reptiles, Leopard Geckos are going to need external heat to survive and keep warm when it's cold, and cool when it's warm.

Thus, it's smart to invest in a heating pad. These pads will stick to the bottom of their enclosure, and provide heat.

This is better than an overhead lamp, as these geckos are crepuscular, and are rarely getting direct sunlight.

Keep these temperatures around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit as anything hotter can burn the gecko! Provide a heat gradient, with one side of the tank getting the heat, and the other side getting no heat.

Enclosure

A single Leopard Gecko can do just fine in a 20-30 gallon horizontal tank with a wire mesh roof.

You can decorate the enclosure too, but always ensure to place enough caves and hiding spots. Remember, these animals are near the bottom of the food chain, and fear things from above.

If you plan to breed Leopard Geckos, and thus will need a bigger enclosure, a 40-gallon tank should do.

As for the substrate, paper towels or newspaper are best, as sand and rocks, which are sometimes used, can be swallowed by the gecko and lead to impaction.

Feeding

Options for feeder insects include:

• Crickets

• Dubia/Discoid Roaches

• Mealworms

• Butterworms

• Silkworms

It's important to keep in mind that only crickets and roaches should be considered staple feeders.

The other worms and insects have a high fat content, and should only be used for skinny geckos or as a treat.

It is best to coat the bugs with vitamin/calcium powder to enhance nutrition. This can be done by placing the bugs in a bag with the powders and shaking it.

Never feed your pets wild bugs, as most of them have parasites! Always supervise feedings.

Feed every other day, and always provide fresh water in a clean bowl as well.

Handling

Never pick up a gecko by its tail. Although Leopard Geckos are less likely to drop their tails compared to other geckos, they can still do it, and it will not grow back the same.

It's good to not come from above, as they associate this with predators. Instead, put your hand at level with the gecko and let the gecko come on to you.

It may take some time, but eventually, the gecko will warm up to you, and tolerate more handling.

Other Tips

Unless you are breeding geckos, never put multiple geckos in the same enclosure. Remember, these are not social animals and they are prone to attacking each other.

It may be beneficial to mist them once in a while. Although they come from desert environments, this extra water can help with shedding.

Do not be alarmed if you never see your gecko shed, as it's normal for them to eat it!

This Care Sheet Has Equipped You With The Knowledge To Best Care For Your Scaly Friend!