African Fat-Tail Gecko

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  * Please note all reptiles in the Eastern Cape or leaving the eastern cape do require permits. This may take  up to two weeks for it to be approved and needs to be approved before reptiles can leave the building, Please inquire *

African Fat-Tail Gecko Care Sheet

1. Enclosure Size

• For 1 adult gecko:
  • Minimum tank size: 60 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (length x width x height)
• For a pair or group:
  • Minimum: 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (length x width x height)
• For hatchlings/juveniles:
  • Minimum: 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm (length x width x height)

2. Temperature

• Warm side: 28°C to 32°C (for basking)
• Cool side: 22°C to 26°C
• Nighttime temperature: 22°C to 24°C (geckos are nocturnal, so lower nighttime temperatures are fine)
• Heat source: Use a heat mat or a ceramic heat emitter on the warm side of the tank to maintain the proper temperature.
• Basking spot: Create a basking area of around 32°C, using a low-wattage heat bulb or mat to provide a gradient for thermoregulation.

3. Humidity

• Ideal humidity: 40% to 60%
• How to maintain humidity:
  • Mist the enclosure lightly once a day or a few times a week to maintain humidity levels.
  • Water dish: Provide a shallow water dish to help maintain some humidity and offer the gecko a place to drink.
• Avoid: Excessive humidity (above 60%) which can cause respiratory issues.

4. Lighting

• UVB lighting: UVB lighting is not absolutely necessary, but a low-level UVB light (e.g., 2.0 or 5.0) can be beneficial to ensure proper calcium absorption.
• Day-night cycle: Provide a natural day-night cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.
  • Nocturnal nature: Since they are nocturnal, they don't need bright lighting, but they should still have a 12-hour dark period.

5. Diet

• Insects: African Fat-Tail Geckos are insectivores. Feed them a variety of insects like:
  • Crickets
  • Dubia roaches
  • Mealworms
  • Superworms (in moderation)
  • Waxworms (as a treat)
• Feeding schedule: Feed juveniles daily and adults 2-3 times a week.
• Supplements: Dust insects with calcium powder (without D3) 2-3 times a week and with a vitamin D3 supplement once a week.
• Avoid: Feeding them insects that are too large, as it can cause choking or digestive issues.

6. Water

• Provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish. Make sure the dish is shallow enough that the gecko cannot accidentally drown.
• Mist the enclosure lightly to maintain proper humidity levels but avoid soaking the substrate or creating stagnant water areas.

7. Substrate

• Recommended substrates:
  • Paper towels
  • Reptile carpet
  • Coconut fiber or coco coir (safe and absorbent)
  • Tile (easy to clean and safe)
• Avoid: Loose substrates like sand or gravel, as they can cause impaction if ingested.

8. Health Monitoring

• Signs of a healthy gecko:
  • Alert and active at night
  • Firm, rounded tail (indicating fat storage)
  • Clear eyes and skin free of lesions
• Shedding: Geckos shed their skin in patches. Ensure proper humidity for successful shedding.
• Weight monitoring: Ensure your gecko maintains a good body condition, with a well-fed tail.

9. Handling

• African Fat-Tail Geckos are relatively calm, but handling should be done gently and minimally.
  • Always support the body and avoid gripping the tail (they can drop it as a defense mechanism).
  • They may be shy initially, so give them time to adjust to their environment before frequent handling.

10. Lifespan

• African Fat-Tail Geckos can live 10-20 years with proper care.

Important Tips

• Temperature gradient: Always provide a warm side and a cool side in the enclosure to allow the gecko to regulate its body temperature.
• Feeding variety: Offer a variety of feeder insects to ensure a balanced diet.
• Humidity control: Light misting helps maintain humidity without excessive dampness in the enclosure.