The leopard gecko is a fascinating, crepuscular and nocturnal ground-dweller from the semi-deserts and steppes of Asia. Its calm nature, the great variety of colours and its manageable husbandry requirements make it appealing to beginners and experienced keepers alike.
In Austria and many other countries, statutory minimum requirements apply. These represent the absolute minimum – for species-appropriate, healthy husbandry, more space and a varied setup are recommended.
| Animal size | Floor area | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 animals up to 10 cm | 0,10 m² | 0,30 m |
| 1–2 animals up to 15 cm | 0,30 m² | 0,40 m |
| 1–2 adult animals | 0,50 m² | 0,40 m |
| each additional animal | +0,10 m² | — |
The floor area may well be larger than legally required. In particular, I recommend modelling the side and back walls with tile adhesive so that crevices and caves are created – important places to retreat to. UV light supports development, behaviour and health. With good husbandry, leopard geckos live up to 20 years – in individual cases even longer.
Leopard geckos are specialised insectivores. Suitable foods include house crickets, crickets, roaches, locusts and occasionally wax worms. Crucial is regular supplementation with calcium and vitamins.
I gut-load the feeder insects myself for a few days before feeding with high-quality food as well as calcium and vitamin pearls. This way the animals are optimally supplied with nutrients.
Leopard geckos have a pronounced hunting instinct – in a well-structured terrarium, feeder animals can be released to roam freely.
Leopard geckos are naturally curious but usually remain reserved. With patience and a calm approach they become very trusting – a proven method is to lure them deliberately with food, for example a wax worm on tweezers. They become active mainly during the evening hours.
Avoid handling after feeding and during shedding. Also give newly moved-in animals a few days of rest at first.
Pay particular attention to signs of parasites, shedding problems or changes in feeding behaviour. For new arrivals, a quarantine is generally recommended. A moist box is a great help with shedding and prevents stuck skin.
Consistent documentation of feeding, weight and development is part of optimal care – for example with my app DragonSphere.
Leopard geckos come in an impressive variety of colour and pattern variants ("morphs") – from classic wild forms to extraordinary colour strains. In my breeding I am still at the beginning and currently focus on robust, healthy animals. More about my lines and breeding goals is gladly available on request.
The well-being of my animals is especially important to me. That is why rehoming is also clearly regulated.
Leopard geckos use the fat in their tail as an energy reserve – the tail also serves as a balancing aid.
Since they cannot blink, they keep their eyes clean and moist by regularly licking over them.
Leopard geckos can squeak or growl – for example in defence or when excited.
