Scientific Name: Eublepharis macularius
Native to: Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India
Adult Size: 7–10 inches
Life Span: 15–20+ years with proper care
Characteristics
Leopard Geckos are hardy, terrestrial geckos known for their calm temperament and manageable size. Unlike many gecko species, they do not require high humidity and do not have adhesive toe pads, meaning they are ground-dwelling rather than climbers. With consistent care and gentle handling, Leopard Geckos adapt well to captivity and are excellent reptiles for both beginner and experienced keepers.
Care Tips
Enclosure
Juvenile Leopard Geckos can be housed in a 20-gallon long enclosure. Adults should have a minimum 20-gallon long tank, though a 30–40 gallon enclosure allows for better temperature gradients and enrichment.
Provide:
• Secure enclosure with proper ventilation
• Warm hide
• Cool hide
• Humid hide (essential for shedding)
• Low climbing decor and enrichment
Leopard Geckos are primarily nocturnal and spend much of the day in hides.
Substrate
Safe substrate options include:
• Paper towels (juveniles or quarantine)
• Reptile carpet
• Slate or tile
• Bioactive substrate (advanced keepers)
Loose sand is not recommended, particularly for juveniles, due to risk of impaction.
Temperature and Lighting
Leopard Geckos require a proper heat gradient:
• Warm hide (belly heat surface): 88–92°F
• Ambient warm side: 85–90°F
• Cool side: 70–75°F
• Night temperatures: above 68°F
An under-tank heater regulated by a thermostat is commonly used to provide belly heat.
Leopard Geckos do not require intense UVB lighting, though low-level UVB can be beneficial. Provide a normal day/night cycle of 10–12 hours of light daily. Avoid bright light exposure at night.
Humidity
Overall enclosure humidity should remain low:
• Ideal range: 30–40%
However, a humid hide should be maintained at higher humidity (around 70–80%) to assist with proper shedding.
Diet and Feeding
Leopard Geckos are insectivores.
Juveniles:
• Feed daily
• Appropriately sized live insects (crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms)
Adults:
• Feed every 2–3 days
All insects should be gut-loaded prior to feeding.
Supplementation:
• Calcium (without D3 when proper UVB is provided)
• Multivitamin once weekly
Prey should be no larger than the space between the gecko’s eyes.
Water
Provide a shallow dish of fresh water at all times.
Clean and refill daily as needed.
Final Notes
Leopard Geckos are hardy and adaptable reptiles when provided with proper heat gradients, supplementation, and clean housing. Stable temperatures and consistent feeding are the foundation of long-term health and success.