How to Care For...
Leopard Geckos
How to Care For...
Leopard Geckos
Leopard geckos have an average lifespan of 15 years but can live up to 20 in captivity.
- Hatchlings measure 3” to 4” in length.
- Adult females are typically 7” to 8” while adult males are 8” to 10.”
Leos go crazy for a succulent mixture of worms and “gut-loaded” crickets.
- Live gut-loaded insects have been fed with calcium, vitamin D3, and other nutrients to sustain your leo’s health.
- Purchase an enclosure that’s at least 2’ in length.
- Place in a heat mat that covers 30% of the enclosure.
- Avoid loose substrate—they prefer rocky ones.
- Add a thermostat
-(Hydrometer and/or thermometer are also recommendedInclude 3 hides, 2 at the minimum.)
- Use moss or something absorbent as a moist hide.
(Put in a water dish.)
Leopard geckos don't need a specific type of lighting—just heat.
Warm side of tank:
Daytime: 89°F-94°F
Nighttime: 84°F-90°F
Cool side of tank:
Daytime: 75°F-80°F
Nighttime: 68°F-75°F
Humidity: 30%-40%
Leos can drink water directly from a water bowl.
Mist your tank to provide extra moisture during shedding.
(You may see your leo lick water off rocks, branches, hides, and more.)
FAQs
A leopard gecko makes an excellent pet. These colorful creatures are small, have minimal care requirements, and can be left alone for several days if necessary. They’re also quiet, don't need a lot of attention, and don’t have a smell.
Don’t handle leopard geckos regularly until they settle in and grow over 6 inches in length. Never grab or hold the gecko's tail as it could be dropped. If this occurs, it should regenerate in less than 40 days.
Leopard geckos are located throughout Asia and the Middle East: primarily in arid, mountainous deserts of Northern India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. They’re almost always found on rocky outcroppings rather than a sandy substrate.
Leopard geckos are neither too big nor too aggressive but can bite when mishandled/aggravated. That being said, please keep in mind that it’s very uncommon and hardly hurts. Unless there's a reason for biting, leopard geckos won’t.