Leopard Gecko #1

Leopard Gecko Care Sheet

1. Enclosure Size

• For 1 adult gecko:
  • Minimum tank size: 75 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (length x width x height)
• For 2 adult geckos (ensure both have enough space and hiding spots):
  • Minimum: 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (length x width x height)
• For hatchlings/juveniles:
  • Minimum: 45 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm (length x width x height)

2. Temperature

• Basking area (warm side): 30°C to 35°C
• Cool side: 24°C to 26°C
• Nighttime temperature: 18°C to 22°C (Leopard geckos are nocturnal and tolerate cooler nights)
• Hot spot (beneath basking light or heat mat): 35°C to 37°C (ideal for digestion)
• UVB lighting: Optional, but UVB light can be beneficial to aid in vitamin D3 synthesis. A UVB light (e.g., 5.0) can be placed in the tank to mimic natural sunlight, but they can also live without UVB if they receive proper calcium supplementation.

3. Humidity

• Ideal humidity: 30% to 40%
• How to maintain humidity: Mist the enclosure lightly 1-2 times a week to maintain humidity levels, but avoid excessive misting.
• Water dish: Provide a shallow dish of clean water for drinking, and also ensure it is refreshed daily.
• Avoid: High humidity (above 50%), as this can lead to respiratory issues and skin problems.

4. Lighting

• Day-Night Cycle: Provide a 12-hour day and 12-hour night cycle, with low-light conditions at night.
• Basking light: Use a low-wattage heat bulb (or ceramic heat emitter) to create a basking area, but avoid overly bright lighting.
• Optional UVB: If using UVB lighting, it should be a UVB 5.0 or 10.0 tube, placed 15-20 cm from the basking area.

5. Diet

• Insects: Leopard geckos are insectivores. Offer a variety of live insects such as:
  • Crickets
  • Mealworms
  • Superworms
  • Dubia roaches
  • Waxworms (as a treat)
  • Hornworms (occasionally)
• Feeding schedule:
  • Juveniles: Feed daily.
  • Adults: Feed every 2-3 days.
  • Dusting insects: Dust insects with calcium powder (without vitamin D3) 2-3 times per week and with a vitamin D3 supplement once a week.
• Water: Provide fresh water in a shallow dish. Mist the enclosure lightly to maintain humidity but avoid soaking the substrate.

6. Substrate

• Recommended substrates:
  • Reptile carpet
  • Paper towels
  • Ceramic tile
  • Coconut fiber or coco coir (ensure it's dry, as it retains moisture)
• Avoid: Loose substrates like sand, crushed walnut shells, or gravel. These can cause impaction if ingested.

7. Health Monitoring

• Signs of a healthy gecko:
  • Clear, bright eyes
  • Full, rounded tail (a sign of good health and fat reserves)
  • Active behavior at night
• Shedding: Leopard geckos shed their skin in patches. To aid in shedding, ensure the humidity is slightly elevated during shedding periods.
• Dehydration or Illness: Look for signs like loss of appetite, lethargy, sunken eyes, or abnormal feces. If any signs of illness are present, consult a veterinarian.

8. Handling

• Leopard geckos are generally calm and enjoy gentle handling. However, they may take time to adjust to their owners.
  • Handling tips:
    • Always support the gecko's body fully when picking it up.
    • Let the gecko walk onto your hand, rather than grabbing it.
    • Handle your gecko for 10-15 minutes a few times a week once it's settled in.
    • Avoid handling immediately after feeding or during shedding periods.

9. Lifespan

• Leopard geckos are long-lived reptiles, and with proper care, they can live 15-20 years.

10. Important Tips

• Temperature gradient: Always provide a warm side and a cool side in the enclosure so your gecko can regulate its body temperature.
• Feeding: Offer a variety of insects to prevent nutritional imbalances.
• Regular cleaning: Clean the enclosure regularly to prevent any mold, bacteria, or waste buildup. Replace substrate as needed.
• Calcium supplementation: Make sure to provide proper calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to avoid metabolic bone disease.