Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) has a difficulty level of low. It was published on June 26, 2017 and last updated on January 15, 2024. Leopard geckos are crepuscular, ground-dwelling lizards native to semi-desert and arid grassland areas of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Nepal. As of 2019, they have also been found in dry, forested areas of Nepal. Their spotted pattern serves as camouflage among the packed earth, rocks, dry grasses, and shrubs characteristic of the landscape.
Wild leopard geckos can be found in holes, crevices, under stones, and under a tree’s loose bark. They are particularly fond of living in old stone walls. They are 7-10″ (17-25 cm) long, with females generally being smaller. In captivity, leopard geckos are known to live long lives: 15-20 years on average.
Leopard geckos are insectivores, eating primarily insects. In the wild, they eat beetles, grasshoppers, spiders, scorpions, and centipedes. They have also been observed preying on caterpillars, pinky mice, newborn birds, as well as smaller snakes and lizards.
Unlike most geckos, leopard geckos are unable to climb vertical surfaces due to the absence of setae on their toes. They also have eyelids, eliminating the need for using their tongue to clean their eyes. However, they can detach and regrow their tail if needed.
Fun Facts: In Pakistan, locals hold a superstition that leopard geckos are related to the common black cobra and are thus venomous. The skin of a leopard gecko is also believed to be poisonous. According to a study published in June 2018, there is evidence to suggest that leopard geckos can regenerate brain cells too!
Source: Eublepharis macularius by Eduardo Santos. CC-BY-2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
If you are planning on a leopard gecko as a pet, PLEASE strongly consider adopting one from a rescue or your local classifieds before purchasing from a pet store. There are many adorable, wonderful leopard geckos that have been rejected by their owners and need a forever home. The market is already flooded with leopard geckos. By adopting, you discourage the breeding and sale of more unwanted geckos. Plus, you can often adopt a leo for cheaper than you would buy one in the store. It’s a win-win!
Leopard Gecko Care Guide — Table of Contents: Introduction to Leopard Geckos, Shopping List, Terrarium Size and Cohabitation, Lighting, Temperature & Humidity Needs, Substrate (Bedding) Options, Decorating Your Leopard Gecko’s Enclosure, What to Feed Your Leopard Gecko, Handling Tips & Leopard Gecko Body Language, Common Diseases, Illnesses & Other Health Questions, Additional Resources. Map modified from “File:Eublepharis macularius distribution.png” by compiled by rbrausse with Quantum GIS. Map data: Made with Natural Earth.
Distribution based on: Olivier Antonini: Le gecko léopard, Animalia éditions, 2009. Hermann Seufer, Yuri Kaverkin & Andreas Kirschner (editors): The Eyelash Geckos, Karlsruhe, 2005, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
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