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Trimar Aquaria and Reptiles

  • [Leopard Gecko Assorted

[Leopard Gecko Assorted

£79.95Price

Leopard geckos are popular reptiles in the UK for their manageable size, docile temperament, and relatively simple care requirements. Here’s a guide to keeping a healthy and happy leopard gecko:

 

1. Enclosure:

    •    Size: For one adult gecko, a 24” x 12” x 12” tank (60x30x30 cm) is usually sufficient. Larger tanks are better, especially if you plan to keep more than one gecko.

    •    Substrate: Use non-powdered reptile carpet, ceramic tiles, or paper towels. Avoid loose substrates like sand, which can cause impaction if ingested.

    •    Hideouts: Provide at least two hideouts: one on the warm side and one on the cool side. This allows the gecko to regulate its body temperature.

    •    Climbing Opportunities: While leopard geckos aren’t arboreal, some low branches or rocks can help with enrichment.

 

2. Temperature and Humidity:

    •    Basking Spot: The warm side of the tank should be around 88-92°F (31-33°C). Use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter for warmth.

    •    Cool Side: The cool side should be around 75-80°F (24-27°C).

    •    Nighttime Temperature: Leopard geckos can tolerate cooler nighttime temperatures, but they should not drop below 65°F (18°C).

    •    Humidity: Maintain humidity between 30-40%, with occasional higher humidity (50%) during shedding periods. A shallow water dish will help with hydration, but avoid excessive humidity that can lead to respiratory problems.

 

3. Lighting:

    •    Leopard geckos are nocturnal, so they don’t need UVB lighting, but it can be beneficial for their overall health. A low-level UVB light (like a 2.0 or 5.0) can support their vitamin D3 synthesis and help them metabolize calcium.

 

4. Diet:

    •    Insects: Leopard geckos primarily eat insects like crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. Feed them insects that are no larger than the width of their head.

    •    Feeding Frequency: Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day.

    •    Supplementation: Dust food with calcium powder (without vitamin D3) for most feedings and with a multivitamin supplement once a week. This helps prevent calcium deficiencies like metabolic bone disease.

 

5. Hydration:

    •    Always provide a shallow water dish. Make sure it’s not deep enough for the gecko to accidentally drown in.

    •    Leopard geckos typically drink less often, but it’s still important to offer water daily.

 

6. Health and Hygiene:

    •    Regularly clean the tank and remove uneaten food to prevent mold or bacterial growth.

    •    Leopard geckos shed in pieces, and the process can take several days. To help them shed, you can increase humidity slightly or provide a moist hide for them to retreat to during shedding.

    •    Monitor for signs of illness such as lethargy, weight loss, or poor shedding. If these symptoms appear, a vet specializing in reptiles should be consulted.

 

7. Handling:

    •    Leopard geckos are typically calm and enjoy gentle handling. Start slow and be patient, letting them explore your hands on their own terms. Avoid grabbing them by the tail, as they can drop it if stressed.

 

8. Breeding (if applicable):

    •    If you plan to breed, be sure to provide a separate area for females to lay eggs. They may lay them even without a male, so you’ll need a safe place for the eggs to be incubated.

 

By following these guidelines, you can provide a suitable environment for your leopard gecko and ensure they thrive in captivity.