Velvet Gecko As with most arboreal (tree dwelling) geckos, it is best not to handle these geckos frequently. Not only are they fast, their skin is sensitive and can be damaged easily. Children should only handle these geckos in the company of an adult. These geckos are excellent display reptiles for terrariums. Length is up to 5". Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend home. Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home before any attempt to handle it.

Feeding Velvet geckos do well on a diet consisting of a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. These geckos will also accept fruit baby food, and prepared foods. Soft foods should be removed from the habitat 4-6 hours after it is offered to prevent spoilage. Adult velvet geckos should be fed 3-4 times per week, some juveniles can be fed twice daily during their growing period. A shallow water bowl should be provided and changed daily. Daily misting of the habitat will help maintain the humidity level.

Housing Successful permanent maintenance requires at least a 10-20 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. The enclosure must include a basking area with several climbing branches, a suitable hiding area, and a "cool" area to allow for thermoregulation. Cork bark is an excellent item to use with all 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. When two or more geckos are desired, it is imperative that daily observations are made to avoid aggressive behavior. If aggression is noted, one or more reptiles may have to be permanently removed from the enclosure.

Ideal daytime temperature for velvet 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 85-95 degrees. Nighttime temperature should remain between 70 and 75 degrees. The humidity for velvet geckos should be maintained at 75 percent or higher. Most geckos require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. Although nocturnal (mainly active at night) geckos don't require ultraviolet lighting, if it is part of the habitat design, it is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods. Bed-A-Beast is an ideal substrate for velvet gecko terrariums.