Leopard Gecko (eublepharis macularius)
Description: One of the most popular and widely kept geckos, the Leopard Gecko is relatively easy to keep and maintain. It is a nocturnal ground-dweller and colouring is usually a yellow background with varying degrees of black spots or bands. Males are larger and stockier than females. These geckos can become very tame if handled gently and regularly from an early age. Total length is 8 to 10 inches.
Vivarium Requirements: A vivarium measuring 18 inches (length) by 12 inches (width) will be adequate for 2-3 animals. Height is not critical as these geckos do not climb. I have found the best substrate to use is sand of the type used for the bottom of birdcages. Place a few hollow logs and some rocks on the floor for the geckos to hide and bask (some do come out during the day) and provide a humidity cave filled with damp moss - this will not only be a cozy retreat for the geckos and enable them to shed their skin more easily but females will also use it to deposit their eggs. Daytime temperature should be between 80 and 88 degrees with a basking spot at a few degrees higher. At night reduce the temperature to 67-70 degrees.
Feeding: Leopard geckos will take crickets, medium sized locusts, waxworms and mealworms. Larger geckos may also take small pinkie mice. Dust the livefood once or twice a week with a suitable vitamin/mineral powder. Provide fresh water in a shallow bowl.
Notes: DO NOT keep more than one male with your females. Males are highly territorial and will fight to the death. Care should be taken whilst handling Leopard Geckos as rough handling may cause the tail to break off (autotomy). It will grow back in time but it never looks as good as the original. A 4-6 week cooling period during the Winter will be of benefit and will also encourage a breeding cycle.