Giant Madagascar Day Gecko (phelsuma madagascariensis grandis)
Description: A fairly large gecko growing to a maximum of 12 inches. Base colour is light green and there is a red eye stripe and varying amounts of red spots on the back. This is a diurnal (active during the day) species which climbs well.
Vivarium Requirements: An enclosure measuring 30 inches (length) by 15 inches (width) by 18 inches (height) is suitable for 2-3 geckos. Substrate should be bark chip as this will hold moisture necessary to maintain high humidity levels. Provide plenty of branches and hollow vertical logs and a few plants. Spray the vivarium daily and provide a good sized water bowl to also maintain humidity. Temperature during the day should be 86 degrees with a basking spot at 88-90, reduce the temperature at night to 70 degrees.
Feeding: Crickets, locusts, waxworms, mealworms and fruit puree. Dust the livefood with a suitable supplement 2-3 times a week. Provide the fruit puree (banana is best) in a small bowl attached halfway up the side of the enclosure but remove any excess daily.
Notes: This species MUST have UV lighting. They should not be handled but if this is absolutely necessary take great care as the skin can tear very easily. Do not keep more than one male in a vivarium as they are aggressive and can cause serious injury to one another.