Leopard gecko care a short guide
Hello readers this weeks blog is on leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) a very common awesome little reptile often sold in pet shops throughout the UK. I currently own a breeding pair of leopard geckos a male called Nero and a female (pictured above) called Mildred. These great reptiles are one of the most commonly available reptiles to keep, often being advertised as a beginner species for the amateur reptile keeper.
Taking this into account I thought It best to give a rough guide on how best to keep these fascinating little dinosaurs. First of all before you even step foot into a pet shop do your research on the species. Look up diet where naturally occur to get an idea on temperatures and habitat requirements. Leopard geckos are commonly found across Asia such as Afghanistan and northern India. Therefore they will need a dry environment with high temperatures.
The correct tank temperature can be achieved by using a under floor heating system such as a heat matt. Place the heat matt under no more than half of the tank so as to provide a heat gradient. A hot and cool end of the enclosure is important to allow the geckos to regulate their body temperature, being cold blooded they rely on external heat sources to keep warm. The hot end should be around 28 to 30 degrees c and the cool end 24 to 26 degrees c. Being nocturnal leopard geckos don't require a UV light but one can be provided if needed set on a timer to mimic the natural night and day light cycle.
Humidity is also important which can be achieved by placing a hide full of damp moss in the cool end of the tank. This helps with shedding as well as keeping the temperatures in the correct range. As for the enclosure itself a substrate of (species specific gecko sand), works well for my geckos. It is a mixture of sandy soil perfect for burrowing. Leopard geckos are secretive terrestrial lizards which need to be supplied with a range of hides placed throughout the enclosure. A water bowl is also important but care must be taken to make sure its shallow to prevent drowning.
A good diet is essential for your geckos health they are strict insectivores which need feeding every day. I give my two 4 locusts, crickets or wax worms a day, dusted with calcium powder every other day. Calcium powder is necessary for healthy bone growth, preventing diseases such as metabolic bone disease or calcium deficiency. Keeping a typed up feeding regime next to the enclosure is also a good idea to make sure you are monitoring what they are eating and how often.
Last but not least leopard geckos are mostly solitary reptiles coming together to breed in the wild. Therefore two males should never be kept together or they will fight. Two females or one male to one or more females is fine, especially if you want to breed them. However the best thing to do is to only keep one leopard gecko this avoids stress and allows you to focus on the individual animal. Ensuring its welfare is safe guarded you will also get to know your new pet properly.
I hope this short guide helps any first time gecko owners or any readers thinking of getting one of these unique animals. Take it from me they are fantastic pets but they can live up to 20 years in captivity so have a good think before you purchase your new pet, if your ready to provide a home for these amazing little reptiles.