Leopard Gecko Care Sheet

Leopard Gecko Care Sheet

General Information

• Scientific Name: Eublepharis macularius
• Lifespan: 10-20 years
• Size: 18-25 cm (7-10 inches)

Housing

• Tank Size: Minimum 45 x 30 x 30 cm (18 x 12 x 12 inches) for one gecko. Larger is better.
• Substrate: Suitable substrates include paper towel or paper, woodchip, a soil/clay/sand mix, or slate rocks. Avoid using reptile carpet as it can catch and injure their toes.
• Hide Boxes: Provide at least two hides: one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the tank. A moist hide is essential for shedding.

Heating

• Temperature Gradient:
  • Warm Side: 28-32°C (82-90°F)
  • Cool Side: 24-26°C (75-78°F)
• Night Temperature: Should not drop below 18°C (65°F)
• Heating: Under-tank heaters are preferred.

Lighting

• Lighting: Leopard geckos are nocturnal and do not require UVB lighting, but it can be beneficial for their overall health. Use a low-intensity UVB light if you choose to provide one.
• Photoperiod: 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to mimic natural conditions.

Humidity

• Humidity Level: 30-40%
• Moist Hide: Provide a moist hide with damp moss or paper towels to aid in shedding.

Diet

• Staple Foods: Live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches.
• Supplementation: Dust insects with a calcium supplement every feeding and a multivitamin supplement once a week.
• Feeding Frequency: Juveniles (every day), Adults (every other day)

Water

• Water: Provide a shallow dish of fresh water daily. Ensure the water dish is not too deep to prevent drowning.

Handling

• Handling Frequency: Handle your gecko gently and infrequently to build trust. Overhandling can cause stress.
• Support: Always support their entire body to make them feel secure.

Health

• Shedding: Leopard geckos shed regularly. Ensure a moist hide to aid shedding. Check toes and tail for retained shed.
• Signs of Illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal feces, or visible parasites. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any signs are noticed.
• Weight: Monitor weight regularly. Adult geckos typically weigh between 50-90 g (0.05-0.09 kg).

Cleaning

• Spot Cleaning: Daily removal of feces and uneaten food.
• Deep Cleaning: Monthly deep clean of the entire enclosure, including changing the substrate and disinfecting the tank and decor.

Enrichment

• Climbing Opportunities: Provide branches, rocks, and reptile-safe decor to encourage natural behaviors.
• Hide Variety: Offer multiple hides with different textures and materials.

Common Leopard Gecko Morphs

• Normal: Wild type coloration, yellow with black spots.
• Albino: Lacks black pigment, often sensitive to bright light.
• Blizzard: Solid white or yellow, may have different temperature needs.
• Tangerine: Bright orange coloration.
• Hypo: Fewer spots, typically has a lighter body color.
• Enigma: Unique pattern and color, can have neurological issues requiring special care.
• Eclipse: Solid black eyes, can be combined with other morphs.

Special Care for Certain Morphs

Some leopard gecko morphs require different care to suit their needs:

• Albino Morphs: More sensitive to light; provide a more shaded environment and avoid bright lighting.
• Enigma Morphs: Prone to Enigma Syndrome, which causes neurological issues. They need a stress-free environment and careful monitoring.
• Blizzard Morphs: May require slightly different temperature regulation to maintain optimal health.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of specific morph needs, you can ensure a healthy and happy life for your leopard gecko. Regular observation and proper care are key to their well-being.