10 Benefits to Adopting a Leopard Gecko
October 22, 2019
Fancy Leopard Geckos are an interactive, curious, clean, and a gentle species of reptile. They are considered beginner level pets and require a minimal amount of maintenance and care. Here are 10 Benefits to adopting a Leopard Gecko!
1. Minimal Space Required – Hatchlings are 3-4 inches long and will grow up to 8 inches for females, and 8-10 inches for males. An adult Leopard Gecko alone will require a 10 gallon tank. If there are two geckos in a tank, they should both be in a 20 gallon tank. It is no recommended more than two Leopard Geckos co-habit a tank together.
2. Six to Ten Year Lifespan – Leopard Geckos live longer than other pet reptiles, averaging from 6-10 years. Many males will live 10-20 years. These pets will be around for a considerably long time.
3. Nocturnal / Crepuscular – Leopard Geckos are active from twilight, dawn, and night. Sometimes Leopard Geckos will be active until sunrise! Nighttime is their natural feeding time, and when they will explore their terrarium the most.
4. Manageable Diet – Leopard Geckos are natural predators and will only eat live insects and bugs. No vegetables or plants. Although somewhat messy, leaving a small number of mealworms or crickets in a securely sealed terrarium should provide entertainment and interest. Calcium powder should also be provided for optimal bone development.
5. Easily Attainable Temperature Gradient – Leopard Geckos cannot create their own body heat, being reptiles. Therefore, you must provide a source of heat for you gecko to maintain a healthy balance, and a functioning dietary system. If you choose not to purchase a heated mat to place under the tank to create a warm side of the tank, all you need is one heat lamp to create the gradient temperature effect necessary for Leopard Geckos. The warm side should be 86° to 90°, and the cool side should be 70° to 78°. There is minimal need for humidity, which is often the most challenging part of owning a reptile. Leopard geckos only need a humid hide to help shed their skin, but do not require a humidity tool.
6. Cheap – After the initial cost of the Leopard Gecko, tank, heat lamps or heat mat, food and water bowl, carpeting, and décor, the cost of maintain a Leopard Gecko is minimal. Mealworms range from $7 to $15 depending on size. Other meal food such as crickets, wax worms, and horn worms are similarly priced for the same quantity. There are no other costs to maintain Leopard Geckos besides veterinary costs.
7. Optimal Health – Generally, Leopard Geckos are very healthy with a balanced diet and nutrients. It is recommended you take you Leopard Gecko to a veterinary checkup, just like other pets, however, it is unlikely that your Leopard Gecko will have serious health issues. However, like other animals, some Leopard Geckos have disabilities such as Enigma Syndrome, or are prone to worm. De-worming is an easy process of preventable action.
8. Clean - Leopard Geckos are known for designating a single spot in the tank for defecation and urination. This makes it easy to clean up after Leopard Gecko messes, but in addition, Leopard Gecko urination takes the form of a solid, white urate. This is additionally easier to clean than liquid urination.
9. Respond Well to Humans – Some Leopard Geckos are quite shy, but my gecko, Guppy is always excited to make new friends! They usually respond well to gentle handling and are always eager to explore outside their tank!
10. Beautiful Colors and Patterns! – Leopard Geckos come in various morphs and skins, each one is unique! They come in all colors from pink to tangerine orange to multicolored.
