GAIA EXOTICS
Species: Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
Place of Origin: Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan
General information: The leopard gecko is a small nocturnal ground dwelling desert lizard. Average adult size is around 6”-8” but some selectively bred specimens can grow to a respectable 10”-12”. The average lifespan of a leopard gecko is 10-15 years, with the record being 29 yrs. Leopard gecko also come in several morphs ranging from the traditional black speckled variety , to solid orange and yellow specimens. Housing/ lighting: Leopard geckos can be housed communally as long has there is only a single male housed in the enclosure. A good rule of thump is one gecko to a 10 gallon, and an additional 5 gallons for each additional gecko. Many breeders house a single male to several females. The enclosure for this species is fairly simple. A basic setup would consist of a hide box and a small shallow water dish. As for the bedding it is advised to house babies on newspaper ( sand is not recommended due to the risk of impaction). For adults sand is the substrate of preference. The temperature in the enclosure should be maintained at around 80 degrees, and the basking area around 90 degrees. The humidity should be kept low around 15%-20%. To assist during shedding you can spray the area under the hide box with water. Due to the species being nocturnal there is no need for artificial lighting. Although they should be provided with a 12/ 12 hr. photo period. To provide head you can either use a basking bulb or under tank heater ( go to heating/ lighting).
Feeding: Leopard geckos are strictly insectivores meaning they only feed on insects. In captivity there diet should consist of crickets, meal worms, wax worms, silkworms, farm raised roaches, and the occasional pinky mouse. It is important to feed your gecko accordingly to there size, and to remove any uneaten prey item. Also leopard geckos respond by movement, so offering pre-killed/ can foods are usually refused. You should feed young leopard geckos every other day, and adults 2-3 times a week. Vitamin supplementation should be done 2-3 times weekly along with a quality Calcium supplement.
If you have any questions feel free to email us at: staff@gaiaexotics.com
