How To Care For a Gecko

Leopard geckos are among the most popular reptiles, which is why they are a top choice of pet lovers. They are great for anyone who wants to have a reptile pet for the first time, as there are docile, cute and incredibly beautiful.

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Taking care of a Gecko reptile isn’t difficult, but it doesn’t mean that the pet can be completely ignored. It doesn’t need a lot of attention and it doesn’t particularly like to be handled, as it is an independent animal and can play, hide and walk on its own for hours. However, there are a few things that you should consider when buying such a pet.

If you are willing to take good care of a leopard gecko, you should know the following:

1. They need a healthy, well-organized aquarium

An aquarium or a terrarium that is filled with plants, rocks and reptile furniture is great for a leopard gecko. A 10 to 20 gallon tank is more than enough for a regular one, as it doesn’t need as much space as other reptiles. Its bottom should be covered in paper or paper towels, but not in substrate, as it could become a deadly danger for them. Geckos tend to ingest everything around them, which is why substrate is to be avoided.

2. Geckos need a special lighting systems

If you are just setting up your reptile’s aquarium, you should consider the fact that they have a different inner clock than humans. Pet stores are stocked with lighting systems for geckos. They are crepuscular reptiles, which means that they are more active after the dawn than they are during the day. Buy a special lighting system that comes with a day-night timer. Unlike other reptiles, they don’t need UV light, so any type of light will do, as long as it is low-wattage.

3. A well-heated tank is essential

Geckos like their tanks to be warm and cozy, but sometimes, during the night, it can become a bit too cold for them, so they could get sick. Buy a moonlight lamp that will warm up the tank a bit, as well as a heating mat that is designed especially for reptiles. The temperature inside the tank should be somewhere between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Offer them a place to hide in

Geckos are active, they like to play and hide and they feel a lot more comfortable when their tank simulates their natural habitat. Add two or more tiny shelters that they can use as hiding spots, as well as sleeping spots.

5. Pay attention to their diet

These reptiles are not very sensitive and they will eat almost anything you give them. In spite of that, you should avoid feeding them with citrus fruits or grapes, as they are not compatible with their digestive system. Choose to prepare the food yourself, as they need a lot of vitamins and minerals from fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, make sure to give them living foods from time to time, such as insects, worms or crickets. They not only love to chase their food, by they will also stay healthy for a long time