Amazing FAQs about Leopard Geckos

Step into the captivating world of leopard geckos with our collection of Amazing FAQs! These unique and charming creatures have captured the hearts of reptile enthusiasts around the globe.

You can also check out our detailed care sheet on the Leopard Gecko!

How big do leopard geckos get?

Leopard geckos typically reach an adult size of 7 to 10 inches (18 to 25 cm) in length, including their tail. The tail can make up about one-third to one-half of their total length.

What do leopard geckos eat?

Leopard geckos are insectivores, which means they primarily eat insects and other small invertebrates. Their diet should consist of a wide variety of appropriately sized insects such as crickets, mealworms, locust, waxworms, and dubia roaches.

What enclosure do leopard geckos need?

A wooden vivarium is perfect for a leopard gecko.

How long do they live?

They can live upwards of 15 years.

What heating does the leopard gecko need?

You will need to heat your vivarium. This temperature should be 20-24℃ (68-75℉) during the day to keep your lizard warm, dropping to 18-23℃ (68-74℉) at night-time. Your lizard will also need a hot spot to bask in at one side of your vivarium, which should be 30-32℃ (86-90℉).

What lighting does the leopard gecko need?

Although Leopard Gecko’s are a crepuscular species (more active at dawn and dusk when its cooler) they still require a day/night cycle via a UVB tube and heat-bulb for their health and wellbeing. You can fix lighting such as an Arcadia Pro T5 ShadeDweller UVB Kit to the inside roof of your vivarium.

Evening Hunters:

Leopard geckos are crepuscular or nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Their large, lidless eyes are adapted for low-light conditions, helping them hunt for food at low light levels.

Gecko Tail Regeneration:

One of the most fascinating features of leopard geckos is their ability to regenerate their tails. If a predator catches their tail, they can voluntarily shed it, and a new one will regrow. While the regenerated tail may not look identical, it serves as a defence mechanism.

Unique Vocalisations:

Leopard geckos are known for making interesting sounds, such as chirps, clicks, and soft squeaks. These vocalizations are part of their communication, especially during courtship or territorial disputes.

Sticky Tongue:

Like all geckos, leopard geckos have a remarkable tongue covered in tiny hair-like structures called papillae. These structures allow them to catch and manipulate prey, even insects as large as themselves.

Distinctive Appearance:

Leopard geckos have a distinct pattern of spots and bands on their skin, resembling the fur of a leopard. They come in various colours, known as morphs, which can range from vibrant yellows and oranges to more subtle tones.

No Eyelids:

Leopard geckos lack eyelids, so they use their long, flexible tongues to clean and moisten their eyes. They also use their tongues to lick surfaces, including their own bodies, to aid in shedding.

Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination:

The gender of leopard gecko hatchlings is influenced by temperature during incubation. Lower temperatures tend to produce male hatchlings, while higher temperatures result in females. This phenomenon is known as temperature-dependent sex determination.

Tail as Energy Reserve:

Leopard geckos store fat reserves in their tails, which they use as a source of energy during periods of scarcity or hibernation. A plump tail is a sign of a healthy and well-fed gecko.

Docile and Handleable:

Leopard geckos are renowned for their calm and gentle nature, making them popular pets for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike. They can become quite comfortable with human interaction and are often tolerant of being handled.

Unlock the secrets of Leopard Geckos with our FAQs! Designed for both beginners and experienced keepers, these facts provided essential care advice and fascinating insights. 

Image Credits 

Andrey Tikhonovskiy

verdian chua