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Leopard Gecko General Info: Length up to 10". Leopard geckos are truly
some of the most "personable" reptiles available today. Their bright coloration
and even temperament make them suitable children's pets. Due to their
widespread popularity, leopard geckos now come in a wide variety of color
variations.
Temperature/Humidity: Ideal daytime temperature for leopard geckos
should range between 75 and 85 degrees. Additionally, a basking lamp should
be used on one end of the enclosure to maintain a local temperature of
95-105 degrees. Nighttime temperature should remain between 65 and 75
degrees. The humidity for leopard geckos should be mixed; a dry habitat
with a moist retreat. This is easy to maintain by moistening peat moss
and placing in the hiding areas within the enclosure. Lighting: Most lizards
and geckos benefit from the use of ultraviolet lighting to maintain good
health. Ultraviolet lighting is recommended for 12 hours per day. The
use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light
periods.
Feeding/Watering: Leopard geckos do well on a diet consisting of a
variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms
and waxworms. A shallow water bowl should be provided and changed daily.
Adult leopard geckos should be fed 3-4 times per week, some juveniles
can be fed twice daily during their growing period.
Habitat/Housing: Successful permanent maintenance requires at least
a 10 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange.
The enclosure must include a basking area, a suitable hiding area, and
a "cool" area to allow for thermoregulation. Cork bark is an excellent
item to use with all terrestrial (land-dwelling) geckos. The bark can
be "layered" to allow the gecko many hiding and foraging areas. Artificial
and natural plants also help to create a natural look. Unless breeding
is desired, leopard geckos are best kept singularly. Substrate (Bedding):
Repti-Sand is an ideal substrate for leopard geckos terrariums.
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