by Dennis Stein

Created on: June 30, 2008

Leopard Geckos as Pets:

As pets, Leopard Geckos have alot of charm, and caring for them is relatively easy. They do well in captivity if given the proper environment, and will breed readily. These unique geckos arre usually Yellow with black spots and fat tails, originating from India and Pakistan, they have a wide head, and fat tail, and many color morphs are available in pet stores. Albino leopards, and 'blizzard' white leopards are sought after animals. They are nocturnal, tending to sleep long periods during the day, which creates some unique care challenges.

A terrarium for Leopard Geckos can be as simple as a 20 gallon aquarium, with a screen top. As most of these geckos only reach 10 inches in length, several can be kept in a larger aquarium, and your enclosure need not be very tall, as these are terrestrial animals, not climbers. A heat lamp should be used, to provide warmth, and a second lamp, for nighttime heat. The bulb in this lamp should be blue, red or even green, so as to throw heat, and still fool the animal into thinking it is night, which is when they typically hunt for food. Leopards will become active quickly after nightfall, roaming their enclosure in search of a meal...

Crickets and mealworms dusted occasionally with calcium vitamin supplements will work well for food, and the humidity in your enclosure should remain high. Spraying the leaves of plants in their home will accomplish this, and a shallow water dish should be provided. Daytime hiding spots should be available, although sometimes these animals will sleep out in the open. Hammocks are available from local pet stores, which stick in a corner of your enclosure, providing a napping spot for these nighttime prowlers.

During molting, a Leopard gecko will appear white, and as their skin sheds, the animal usually will eat the molted skin. During these times, humidity should be highest, as it aids in the animal's shed. Geckos store fat in their tail, so if your pet is getting slim in the hind end, it may be time to ramp up their diet, feeding more mealworms for extra fat. Silkworms can also be offered, which provide even more fat.

Leopard Geckos have alot of personality, and owning one will certainly bring anyone hours of pleasure. These small reptiles are both colorful, and easy to keep, breeding readily, and will be a conversation piece in any room of your home...

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