Geckos are docile and have placid nature. So, keeping a gecko or two as a pet won’t give you a headache. Check some useful facts about geckos that every new pet gecko owner should know.
Geckos are hand-sized lizards; they are like hamsters in the world of reptiles. And if you are planning to have a reptile as a pet, gecko lizards are the ideal reptile starter pets.
Popular Geckos as Pets
There are different species of geckos; they come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from 0.64 inches to 24 inches from the tip to its tail. Geckos have quite a long lifespan; they live between 10 to 20 years. Here are some popular geckos and typically the best geckos for beginners:
- Leopard geckos are native to the deserts of Pakistan and northwest India. They are easy to take care of and have low maintenance requirements. They are docile and do not mind being handled quite often. Additionally, leopard geckos are adaptable and can be friendly if handled from a young age.
- Common house geckos usually grow at about 3 to 5 inches. These are the geckos that can stick to vertical surfaces and ceilings; thanks to their specialized footpads that allow them to do so. Common house geckos have a shorter lifespan than the other type of geckos. Typically, they can live between 5 to 10 years.
- Tokay geckos are nocturnal. They are known for their unique croaking noises, which sound “To-kay! To-kay!” And in South and Southeast Asia, Tokay geckos are believed to bring good luck. However, Tokay geckos may not be a good choice for first-timers because of their feisty demeanor; in fact, they can deliver painful bites when threatened. On the flip side, they too can get friendly if handled well since young.
- Crested geckos were once thought to be extinct. They make very good pets; they are easy to keep and handle. Plus, they come in different unique, beautiful colors and patterns.
Gecko Personality and Traits
Every gecko may display a few similar traits but each species have a unique personality. For instance;
- Not all geckos are nocturnal. Although most of the popular gecko pets are nocturnal, there are gecko species that are active during the day.
- Not all geckos are quiet. Although most geckos are peaceful and quiet, some geckos produce loud noises, like the Tokay geckos.
- Not all geckos have a calm demeanor some can become feisty and quite aggressive, especially when they sense competition.
Gecko Indoor Habitat
Geckos are low-maintenance pets. However, you need to provide them with a secured habitat. To create an ideal gecko habitat you need the following:
- Tank; a single gecko requires at least a 10-gallon tank. And if you have a pair of geckos, you need at least a 15-gallon tank.
- Substrate
- Objects for hiding or exploring.
- Heat lamp to create the ideal temperature for the gecko to survive.
- Lighting
- Water
- Food (crickets, mealworms, roaches, and more)
Common gecko health problems to take note
Although gecko pets are low maintenance, they too can acquire health problems, including:
- Parasites
- Stomatitis
- Dysecdysis
- Respiratory problems
So, make sure to bring your pet gecko to the vet once every 6 months or one year.