Behavior Insights Archives - Leopard Gecko

Leopard Gecko Glass Climbing – Safety Tips and Causes

Dr. Liam Anderson — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Glass climbing in Leopard geckos is often seen by owners. A Leopard gecko climbing the glass of its enclosure is often a sign of distress.

Introduction to Leopard gecko glass climbing

Glass climbing in Leopard geckos is when a Leopard gecko is continually trying to climb the glass surfaces of the enclosure and slips off again. Sometimes Leopard geckos will also try to climb non-glass surfaces.

Leopard gecko glass climbing is often the result of some sort of distress and is an attempt to escape (author’s personal observation).

Glass surfing behaviour

Glass climbing in Leopard geckos is also referred to as ‘surfing’ because when the Leopard gecko keeps sliding off, it will fall and move to one side and then try to climb that area again, and so forth. This will lead to the Leopard gecko moving from one side of the enclosure to the other side – making it look like ‘surfing’.

Common reasons for glass climbing in Leopard geckos include:

Unfamiliar surroundings (e.g. moving to a new enclosure or new additions to an established enclosure)
Extreme temperatures (e.g. when the temperature is too high or too low)
Incorrect humidity (e.g. when no humidifying shelters are supplied)
Overcrowding (e.g. when the keeping enclosure is too small)
Over- or underfeeding (e.g. when feeder insects are roaming around or when there is not enough food)
Lack of proper hiding areas

Unfamiliar surroundings

Leopard geckos are commonly seen showing glass climbing behaviour during the first couple of days after being introduced to a new enclosure. This is even more true in the case of baby Leopard geckos.

It is important to keep handling to a minimum during these times and only open or move the enclosure during this time when it is absolutely necessary.

Also see
Handling a Leopard gecko

Leopard geckos inhabit the arid and semi-arid territories of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, India and Nepal. Although these are considered desert areas, temperatures that are too high, and obviously too low, can cause stress in Leopard geckos and lead to subsequent glass climbing behaviour.

The recommended temperature range for Leopard geckos is 25–30 ºC / 77–86 ºF⁽²³⁾, which can either be kept constant or be dropped to room temperature during the evenings. Ideally, a temperature gradient should be created to allow Leopard geckos to thermoregulate.

Temperatures are measured using a thermometer.

Also see
Natural distribution of Leopard geckos
Leopard gecko thermometers

Too high temperatures

Apart from climbing behaviour, Leopard geckos that are kept in temperatures that are too high include anorexia (refusal to eat) and fast and open mouth breathing. High temperatures can also cause immunosuppression⁽³⁴⁾⁽³⁵⁾ and even be lethal to Leopard geckos.

The obvious thing to do in cases where environmental temperatures are too high is to reduce the heat supply of the heating equipment. This can be done using a thermostat or by changing over to less powerful lighting or under tank heat mats. Also, make sure that the heat source is only emitting about a third of the floor space of the enclosure.

Too low temperatures

Low environmental temperatures are not as dangerous as high temperatures but still causes stress in Leopard geckos. Apart from climbing the glass of the enclosure, too low temperatures can also cause lethargy and anorexia.

If the required temperature range of Leopard geckos cannot be achieved naturally (e.g. living in colder parts of the world), heating equipment will be required. Nighttime temperatures should also be controlled in the case where it is monitored to be below 18 ºC / 64 ºF.

Also see
Supplying heat to Leopard geckos

Incorrect humidity

Another common reason for stress and Leopard gecko glass climbing is when the humidity of the enclosure is too low. Apart from glass climbing in Leopard geckos, low humidities will first be observed by excessive soaking behaviour and skin shedding problems.

Although Leopard geckos are from semi-desert areas, they actually prefer microhabitats where there is some moisture. These include areas with tunnels, stacked rocks, pieced of wood and plant material where they can hide

The best way to supply humidity to Leopard geckos is by adding one or more humidifying shelters. The substrates used inside these areas are wetted to be moist.

Also see
Correct humidity for Leopard geckos
Suitable substrates for Leopard geckos

Although Leopard geckos are considered gregarious⁽⁴⁹⁾ and naturally live in small colonies⁽³⁰⁾⁽⁵⁰⁾, overcrowding can cause stress and climbing behaviour. Some breeders also prefer to house baby Leopard geckos in groups.

Overcrowding becomes a problem when the keeping enclosure is too small, different sized/aged Leopard geckos are housed together or when more than one adult male is kept in the same enclosure⁽⁵⁰⁾.

Harem of Leopard geckos. As Leopard geckos get older, they prefer to stay in smaller groups where there is only one male.

Enclosure size

Typically, one adult male Leopard geckos can be kept with a harem of several female Leopard geckos⁽⁵⁰⁾.

A single Leopard gecko can be housed in an area as small as a 10-gallon tank / 30 x 30 cm / 12 x 12 ″, but bigger is better. One or two Leopard geckos can be housed together in an ADDIS (35 x 25 x 15) cm / (13.7 x 10 x 10) ″ container with the correct setup.

A 20 gallon / 30-50 ℓ / (61 x 23 x 33) cm / (24 x 9 x 13) ″ glass tank, “Pal pen “or “Desert den” can also be used to house one to a few Leopard geckos.

The floor space should increase by at least 25% for every gecko added after that.

Different sizes

As long as they are all adult, different sized/aged Leopard geckos can be housed together without problems. Housing different aged baby and juvenile Leopard geckos together can cause unfair competition for food and even bullying where the smaller ones often loose.

Baby Leopard geckos are often kept in groups in order to save space. When different sized baby Leopard geckos are housed together, they might stress and show climbing behaviour.

Adult males

Males will generally not tolerate each other unless juvenile⁽⁵⁰⁾.

Over- or underfeeding

To prevent Leopard gecko glass climbing behaviour it is important to feed the correct quantity and size of feeder insects.

Feeding too little

Leopard geckos are active hunters. When hungry, they will often go out and look for food. In the case where there is no food, Leopard gecko glass climbing behaviour might be observed in an attempt to go and look for food.

On average, Leopard geckos need to be feed every day, or at least every other day. The best feeding times is probably during the evening when Leopard geckos are mostly active.

The correct prey size in moderate numbers can stimulate hunting behaviour in baby Leopard geckos. Image from YouTube.com.

Walking insects such as crickets should be offered one-by-one, or a few at a time until the Leopard gecko has lost interest. Crawling insects such as mealworms or silkworm larvae can be offered at libitum (always be available) in a small shallow escape-proof dish. Although ‘crawlies’ should always be available, they must be fresh.

Feeding too much

Similar to not eating enough, too many free-roaming food items can also cause Leopard geckos to stress and try to escape. Large food items can be intimidating or simply too strong to overpower, leading to anorexia (refusal to eat) and fear. In these cases, reducing the size and the number of feeder insects often helps.

Also see
Feeding pet Leopard geckos

Lack of hiding areas

Being crepuscular⁽⁵⁰⁾⁽⁵¹⁾⁽⁵⁹⁾ to nocturnal⁽⁴⁹⁾⁽⁶⁹⁾ by nature, Leopard geckos need a place to sleep and hide away during the day.

In the wild, Leopard geckos will spend a great deal of time avoiding bright light and to stay out of sight of predators⁽³¹⁾. These times are spent under rocks, under trees and in burrows, tunnels and holes under the soil. These are also the areas where Leopard geckos will sleep and deposit their eggs. Without an adequate place to hide, Leopard geckos might start to show glass climbing behaviour.

To simulate this behaviour and create a similar environment, it is important that hiding areas are supplied⁽⁵⁰⁾. Hiding and sleep areas for Leopard geckos (also called shelters, hides or retreats) can be supplied in the form of hide boxes, cave-like structures and custom decorations.

Also see
Leopard gecko hide areas and hide boxes

Conclusion

Although there might be other reasons for Leopard geckos to try to escape and show glass climbing behaviour, the main factors include unfamiliar surroundings, extreme temperatures, incorrect humidity, overcrowding, over- or underfeeding and the lack of hiding areas.

These factors need to be corrected to reduce stress in Leopard geckos.

The post Leopard Gecko Glass Climbing – Safety Tips and Causes appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Decoding Tongue Flicking in Leopard Geckos – What It Means

Dr. Liam Anderson — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Leopard geckos are fascinating reptiles that use their tongues in some interesting ways. One behavior you may notice is tongue flicking, where a gecko quickly flicks its tongue in and out of its mouth. This serves an important purpose for the gecko. Let’s take a closer look at leopard geckos Tongue flicking behaviour, what information they gather, and how this ability helps them survive.

Why Do Leopard Geckos Flick Their Tongues?

Leopard geckos flick their tongues to collect chemical molecules from the air. Their tongues work like tiny sticky traps that capture scents and flavors. When the tongue retracts back into the mouth, these molecules stick to special organs called the vomeronasal or Jacobson’s organs. These organs send signals to the brain that provide all kinds of information about the gecko’s environment.

Tongue flicking allows leopard geckos to achieve the following:

Detect predators and prey – Geckos can sense where a tasty cricket is hiding or if a dangerous snake is nearby.
Identify territories – Geckos gather chemical cues from the environment that tell them whose territory they are in.
Find mates – Male geckos can detect when a female is receptive through chemical signals she gives off.
Pursue prey – Geckos can follow scent trails left behind by insects and other invertebrates.
Gather information – Flicking their tongues helps geckos collect large amounts of data about their surroundings. This information aids their survival.

Tongue Flicking Frequency

Leopard geckos flick their tongues fairly frequently while they are active. You may notice your gecko flicking its tongue every 10-30 seconds as it moves around its habitat exploring.

Tongue flicking frequency increases when a gecko encounters a new environment or is actively hunting. It may flick its tongue multiple times per second when hot on the trail of prey or checking out a new object you placed in its terrarium.

A healthy leopard gecko is almost constantly gathering chemical information from its environment. So tongue flicking is a very common and normal behavior you can expect to see.

What Causes Tongue Flicking?

Leopard geckos flick their tongues in response to smelling chemical odor molecules in the environment. As air currents pass through their habitat, molecules become dispersed in the air. Special organs in the gecko’s nasal passages and mouth detect these chemicals.

In response, the brain stimulates the gecko to flick its tongue to collect a sample. Nerves in the tongue likely also help trigger this reflex.

Once the gecko draws its tongue back into its mouth, the chemicals stick to the Jacobson’s organs. Sensory cells detect their makeup, sending signals to the brain areas that process smells and tastes.

Differences Between Males and Females

Both male and female leopard geckos flick their tongues to collect chemical cues from their environment. But some research suggests adult males may flick their tongues more frequently than females in some situations.

One study exposed male and female leopard geckos to chemical stimuli from potential prey and non-prey sources. The researchers observed that males tended to flick their tongues faster in response to prey odors compared to females.

Another study found that male geckos flicked their tongues significantly more than females when exposed to pheromones from female skin. The males likely were gathering chemical information to help them locate potential mates.

These studies suggest male geckos may be slightly more attentive to chemical signals relevant to activities like mating and hunting prey. Both sexes share the tongue flicking behavior, but their responses may differ in some contexts.

Unusual Tongue Flicking

While tongue flicking is normal, excessive flicking can sometimes indicate a health issue in leopard geckos. Parasites, respiratory infections, and dehydration are among the problems that can cause more frequent tongue movements.

You may also see a gecko flick its tongue abnormally far outside its mouth. This can happen due to calcium deficiency, metabolic bone disease, or neurological issues.

If your leopard gecko is flicking its tongue much more than usual, sticking its tongue out too far, or showing other signs of illness, contact your exotic veterinarian. Proper treatment can help resolve the underlying issue.

Importance of Tongue Flicking for Survival

A leopard gecko’s long, sticky tongue provides key information about its environment. This helps geckos find critical resources like food, water, shelter, and mates. Sensing chemical signals also allows geckos to avoid potential threats from predators.

Tongue flicking gives geckos an evolutionary advantage over reptiles without this ability. Those able to detect more information about their surroundings can navigate environments more effectively. They stand a better chance of surviving and passing along their genes.

Over thousands of generations, natural selection likely favored geckos that used tongue flicking to scope out territory and locate essentials like insects to eat. This behavior remains deeply embedded in the leopard gecko species today.

Caring for Your Pet’s Tongue Health

As a leopard gecko owner, it’s important to support your pet’s tongue health. This ensures your gecko can perform natural chemical-sampling behaviors.

Follow these tips:

Provide a calcium-rich diet, including gut-loaded insects
Dust food with calcium + D3 supplement
Use a vitamin supplement 2-3 times weekly
Ensure access to clean, fresh water
Avoid housing geckos on coarse substrates
Watch for signs of metabolic bone disease
Schedule wellness checks with an exotic vet

With proper care, your gecko can flick its tongue to its heart’s content and keep its sensory system working perfectly.

The Next Time You See Tongue Flicking

The next time you see your leopard gecko flicking its forked tongue in and out, you’ll understand why. This is normal behavior that helps your pet gather lots of meaningful information about its environment. Tongue flicking allows geckos to detect food, threats, mates and territory boundaries – all important for survival.

So when you witness frequent tongue movements, your gecko is simply doing what comes naturally. Its specialized tongue and Jacobson’s organs work together to provide an evolutionary advantage passed down over many leopard gecko generations. With improved sensory abilities, geckos can more successfully occupy their ecological niche. I sincerely hope you find this “Tongue flicking behaviour in Leopard geckos” article helpful.

The post Decoding Tongue Flicking in Leopard Geckos – What It Means appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Top 5 Sounds Leopard Geckos Make – Understanding Their Communication

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Leopard geckos are popular pet lizards known for their docile nature, ease of care, and wide range of morphs and colors. These geckos communicate through body language and vocalizations. While leopard geckos are usually quite quiet, they can make various noises to express different emotions and needs. Understanding these noises can help provide better care for a leopard gecko. In this article we talk about 5 common noises Leopard geckos can make.

Squeaking

Squeaking is one of the most common noises leopard geckos make. These high-pitched squeaks sound similar to a dog toy being squeezed. Squeaking often signals fear, distress, or pain in leopard geckos.

Common reasons for squeaking include:

Being handled when they don’t want to be. Leopard geckos may squeak in protest if they are picked up against their will.
Feeling threatened or attacked. Predators in the wild or overly aggressive cage mates in captivity can cause a leopard gecko to squeak in distress.
Experiencing pain from injury or illness. Issues like metabolic bone disease, infections, or falls can all elicit painful squeaking.
Being startled. Quick movements or loud noises can startle a leopard gecko into squeaking.

Squeaking should not be ignored as it indicates your gecko is stressed or hurt. Try to identify and remove the source of fear or discomfort prompting this noise. Consulting an exotic vet is recommended if squeaking persists or seems related to health issues.

Barking

Leopard geckos also produce a barking sound, reminiscent of a small dog. This abrupt, raspy vocalization tends to signal irritation, anger, or dominance displays.

Reasons leopard geckos may bark include:

Establishing territory. Male geckos often bark when defending their preferred hideouts.
Showing aggression. Both males and females may bark to appear threatening during confrontations over territory, food, or mates.
Expressing frustration. Excessive handling, cage overcrowding, or other bothersome issues can cause geckos to bark their displeasure.
Responding to reflections. The appearance of another gecko in a reflection or glass tank wall is sometimes met with aggressive barking.

Barking is more common in mature males but can occur in juveniles and females too. While some territorial barking is normal, excessive barking warrants inspection for stressors in the gecko’s environment. Removing tank reflections, providing multiple hides, and handling geckos gently can help reduce problematic barking.

Clicking

Clicking or clucking sounds are made when leopard geckos rapidly move their jaws together. It resembles the noise made when clicking tongs or castanets together.

Clicking often indicates positive emotions in leopard geckos like pleasure, excitement, or interest:

Greeting owners. Leopard geckos sometimes click happily upon seeing familiar caretakers approach their tank.
Showing interest in food. The anticipation of feeding time can stimulate clicking as geckos get excited for their prey.
Enjoying physical contact. Gentle handling or petting may elicit mild clicking noises from content geckos.
Exploring environments. New areas and stimuli can also trigger curious clicking and clucking in leopard geckos as they investigate.

So clicking tends to signal a happy, healthy gecko. It especially occurs during rewarding situations or novel experiences. Paying attention to when your gecko clicks can reveal its favorite foods, toys, and types of handling.

Hissing

An aggressive hiss is another common leopard gecko vocalization. This is an elongated “shhh” sound often coupled with a sudden lunge or bite at the perceived threat.

Reasons for hissing include:

Warning rivals away. Hissing communicates to other geckos that “this is my territory!”.
Fending off predators. In the wild, leopard geckos hiss when confronted with snakes or other enemies.
Responding to handling issues. Geckos may hiss if waking up grumpy or if they smell prey on your hand and mistake a finger for food.
Expressing fear. Hissing can also indicate a scared gecko rather than an aggressive one. Intense stimuli can frighten some into defensive hissing.

Take hissing seriously by removing whatever is causing your gecko distress. But don’t automatically interpret it as aggression. Hissing is a natural reaction to stressors that helps leopard geckos protect themselves. With proper care, most geckos will rarely hiss.

Chirping

Perhaps the most endearing leopard gecko noise is chirping. These are high-pitched squeaks emitted in short bursts. They resemble the sweet sound of baby birds begging for food.

Chirping frequently signals:

Hunger. Mealworm-loving geckos may chirp excitedly when you open the prey container.
Bonding attempts. Both baby and adult geckos may chirp for your attention as a sign of attachment.
Courting behaviors. Male geckos serenade females with rhythmic chirps and squeals during breeding season.

So chirping mainly relates to food and social interactions for leopard geckos. It’s an indicator of appetite and interest in their environment. Chirping pauses when geckos are feeling sick, stressed, or scared. If chirping declines in your previously vocal gecko, inspect husbandry conditions more closely.

Understanding Noises

Now you know the 5 most common leopard gecko noises and their general meanings. Squeaking shows distress, barking communicates irritation, clicking indicates pleasure, hissing signals defensiveness, and chirping relates to appetitive behaviors. Of course, context plays a role too in interpreting these vocalizations properly. A healthy gecko will make some noise, just watch for any excessive yelling or dead silence instead. When cared for properly, leopard geckos are quite calm and quiet pets. But they do “talk” on occasion to communicate their basic needs and emotions. So take the time to listen to your leopard gecko’s noises both for better bonding and to ensure you meet this unique lizard’s fundamental welfare. I sincerely hope you find this “5 common noises Leopard geckos can make” article helpful.

The post Top 5 Sounds Leopard Geckos Make – Understanding Their Communication appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Healthy Leopard Gecko Behavior – What to Expect and Promote

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:29:15 +0000

As a beloved pet in many households, the Leopard gecko deserves attentive and caring owners. An integral part of proper Leopard gecko care is understanding what constitutes healthy and normal behaviour for these gentle lizards. By educating ourselves on normal Leopard gecko mannerisms, we can better provide for our scaly friend’s needs and ensure its wellbeing. In this article, we will cover various aspects of healthy Leopard gecko behaviour, including:

Activity patterns
Movement and exploring
Eating habits
Defecation
Shedding routines
Hydration and drinking
Signs of sickness

Getting to know what is “normal” for a thriving Leopard gecko allows us to recognize potential problems early and address them. Let’s explore some key behavioral indicators that our Leopard gecko is happy and healthy.

Daily Activity Cycles

As nocturnal creatures, Leopard geckos are most active in the evening and night. During daylight hours, they will likely be relatively inactive, preferring to lounge or sleep quietly in hides, burrows, or shaded areas of their habitat.

When the sun goes down, a healthy Leopard gecko will emerge to bask under heat lamps or warming pads. This signals the start of their day and they will begin puttering around their enclosure, peering into nooks and crannies, climbing on branches and decor items, and hunting for tasty insects or worm treats.

Normal Movement and Exploring

A well-adjusted Leopard gecko exhibits natural inquisitiveness and likes to deliberately explore its surroundings. Unafraid, it will purposefully walk and climb around at an unhurried pace, occasionally stopping to inspect objects more closely.

Watch for robust mobility and strong limbs as it traverses its habitat. Healthy front and back feet should appear straight, without twisting or curving. The tail should drag behind, not fall limply to one side.

Also expect occasional pauses as the gecko tastes the air with its tongue to pick up chemical cues. This is normal sensory behavior.

Eating Habits

These small lizards are built to be hunters and consumers of frequent small meals. A healthy Leopard gecko will readily pursue and eat live insects or commercial gut loaded feeders. Ensure its diet includes an appropriate ratio of insects to worms.

After capturing and subduing prey in its mouth, observe your lizard while it eats. It should be able to effectively bite down, chew, and swallow easily. Any difficulty grasping, biting, or manipulating food could indicate an underlying health issue.

Watch that the gecko eats with enthusiasm at regular intervals. Healthy Leopard geckos have a reliable appetite and will not ignore opportunities for an insect snack! A decrease in appetite can be an early warning sign of illness.

Defecation

Normal digestion requires regular bowel movements. Expect a healthy Leopard gecko to pass stool every one to three days. Look for brown and white uric acid components excreted together.

Frequent defecation in a particular “bathroom corner” of the habitat is common and not a concern. Just clean this area more frequently. Sudden loose stools, constipation, or bloody feces always warrant a veterinary visit to diagnose the cause.

Shedding Skin

In order to grow, Leopard geckos need to periodically shed their skin in sections or all at once. Skin turning whitish and opaque precedes a normal, healthy shed. Your gecko may also rub against objects to help loosen skin.

Never peel shedding skin! Allow the process to complete naturally over several hours or days. Retained skin can cut off blood supply to digits or appendages. After shedding, check your lizard’s coloration for any abnormal discoloration.

Hydration

While Leopard geckos gain moisture from prey, occasionally drinking water is still important for hydration. Ensure clean water in a shallow dish is always available, both day and night.

Although you may not observe your gecko drinking frequently, recognize its ability to find and lap water when needed. If increasing water dish visits occur suddenly, suspect dehydration or improper environmental temperatures.

Signs of Sickness

Catching signs of illness early allows for quicker veterinary treatment and better outcomes. Notice these abnormal behaviors that can indicate health problems:

Lethargy and decreased activity
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Difficulty with coordination or limb weakness
Heavy breathing through an open mouth
Discharge from nostrils or eyes
Skin color changes
Lumps, swelling, or injuries

If any abnormal symptoms appear or persist beyond 24 hours, contact an exotic animal veterinarian, as antibiotics, fluids, or other supportive therapies may be needed. Keep records of symptoms and concerns to share with the vet.

In Conclusion

Caring, observant Leopard gecko owners have the reward of a healthy and thriving reptilian friend! By learning normal behavioral patterns and activity, keepers can provide proper habitat conditions for natural behaviors to occur. Monitoring any significant deviations from normal allows illness to be caught early when medical treatment has the best outcomes. Pay attention for positive signs like regular eating, moving, and defecation that show your beloved scaly pet is healthy and happy! I sincerely hope you find this “Healthy Leopard gecko behaviour” article helpful.

The post Healthy Leopard Gecko Behavior – What to Expect and Promote appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Glass Climbing in Leopard Geckos – Causes and Safety Tips

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:28:54 +0000

There might be times where Leopard gecko owners see their pets trying to climb the glass of their enclosure. It is very often in an attempt to escape. Glass climbing behaviour might be seen from time-to-time, but when it becomes a habit it might be an indication that something is wrong.

Although there might be various other (less serious) reasons, Leopard gecko glass climbing behaviour is considered to be caused by stress. Although many factors can contribute, the main areas to evaluate when a Leopard gecko is showing this behaviour is overcrowding, the temperature and quantities of food.

Incorrect temperatures

Leopard geckos are desert animals. Lower than recommended day temperatures will cause stress. The same will happen when temperatures are too high.

Although Leopard geckos are exposed to huge day/night and seasonal temperature differences in nature, they show huge adaptability in most artificial environments. As pets, Leopard geckos will thrive in temperatures of 25 – 32 ºC / 77 – 90 ºF with a drop to room temperature during the evenings. Environmental temperatures of Leopard geckos can be measured using a thermometer. In many parts of the world, including South Africa, no heating equipment will be required, but with average room temperatures of below 23 ºC / 73 ºF additional heating should be installed. Also see supplying heat to Leopard geckos for more information.

Food

Leopard geckos are active hunters. When hungry, they will often go out and look for food. On average, Leopard geckos need to be feed every day, or at least every other day. The best time of the day is probably during the evening when Leopard geckos are mostly active.

Walking insects should be offered one-by-one, or a few at a time until the Leopard gecko has lost interest. Crawling insects can be offered at libitum (always be available) in a small shallow escape-proof dish. Although ‘crawlies’ should always be available, they must always be fresh. It is also a good idea to offer crawling insects in the same container as the powdered supplements are offered in. Also see feeding your pet Leopard gecko for more information.

Similar too not eating enough, too many food items, such as crickets, running around freely in the enclosure can also cause this behaviour in Leopard geckos. Large food items can be intimidating and can lead to anorexia (refusal to eat) and to stress. In these cases by reducing the size and the amount of crickets often helps.

Overcrowding

Leopard geckos are considered solitary animals. Although it is popular to house multiple (small groups) babies together, Leopard geckos prefer to be alone as they get older. Housing different sized Leopard geckos in the same enclosure can also cause this behaviour. Overcrowding also to a limitation in physical space and is stressful on the environment, increasing the chances for stress, stress-related, and other diseases.

Harem of Leopard geckos. As Leopard geckos get older, they might prefer to rather stay alone or in smaller groups.

Summary

Although there might be other reasons for Leopard geckos to try to escape, these were the factors that are very often incorrect when this behaviour is frequently observed.

The post Glass Climbing in Leopard Geckos – Causes and Safety Tips appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Leopard Gecko Feeding Behavior- A Comprehensive Guide

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:28:54 +0000

Leopard geckos are insectivores, relying heavily on insects for nutrition. In the wild, their diet includes insects like crickets and mealworms, along with spiders and occasionally small mammals. These reptiles are also nocturnal, meaning they’re most active and prefer to hunt at night.

To mimic their natural hunting patterns, it’s best to feed leopard geckos live insects during evening hours. Observing this schedule not only aligns with their instincts but also promotes a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Feeding Patterns: Baby vs. Adult Leopard Geckos

Feeding habits differ greatly between baby and adult leopard geckos. Baby geckos are often cautious with food, especially live insects, but as they grow, they become more confident hunters.

Stage	Feeding Frequency	Diet Suggestions
Baby	Daily	Small insects like pinhead crickets, mealworms
Juvenile	Every 1-2 days	Medium-sized crickets, mealworms, waxworms
Adult	Every 2-3 days	Larger insects like crickets, dubia roaches

Tip: Feed baby geckos smaller, more manageable prey to avoid choking and promote easier digestion.

Adapting to New Environments

When first brought home, leopard geckos may take some time to adapt to their new surroundings, which can affect feeding habits. They might hesitate to eat or shy away from food, especially if they feel exposed.

Tips for New Owners:

Provide Privacy: Feed your gecko in a quiet, low-traffic area to reduce stress.
Add Hiding Spots: Create hiding spaces in the enclosure to help your gecko feel secure.
Offer Small Portions: Start with a few insects to gauge their comfort and hunger level.

Over time, they’ll adjust and become more comfortable, making feeding time less stressful for both the gecko and the keeper.

Feeding Frequency and Normal Patterns

A healthy leopard gecko will generally follow a regular feeding schedule. Juveniles need more frequent feedings due to their rapid growth, while adults can be fed less often.

Feeding Frequency Table

Gecko Age	Feeding Frequency
Baby	Daily
Juvenile	Every 1-2 days
Adult	Every 2-3 days

Changes in feeding habits, especially if they stop eating, may indicate health issues, stress, or upcoming shedding.

Shedding and Its Impact on Feeding

Shedding is a natural process for leopard geckos that often disrupts their feeding routine temporarily. During this time, they may lose interest in food due to physical discomfort.

To support your gecko during shedding:

Provide a Moist Hide: Place a damp hide to help ease shedding.
Mist the Enclosure: Increase humidity slightly to support the shedding process.

After shedding, they typically resume regular feeding, so a temporary reduction in appetite isn’t usually a cause for concern.

Feeding Techniques for Captive Leopard Geckos

Creating a diet that mirrors a gecko’s natural feeding habits is crucial. Offering a variety of live insects promotes interest in feeding while providing balanced nutrition.

Types of Common Feeder Insects:

Crickets: High in protein, easy to digest
Mealworms: Good source of fat and protein
Dubia Roaches: Nutritious and easier to digest than crickets
Waxworms: High-fat treat, best used occasionally

Gut-Loading and Supplementation:

Gut-Loading: Feed nutritious foods to insects before offering them to your gecko, enhancing the insect’s nutrient content.
Dusting with Calcium: Dust insects with calcium powder before feeding to prevent bone-related health issues.

Feeding Tips for Optimal Health

Ensuring a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential to prevent common health issues in leopard geckos.

Important Tips:

Feed at Night: Match your gecko’s nocturnal activity by feeding during evening hours.
Size Matters: Insects should be no larger than the space between your gecko’s eyes.
Rotate Food: Offer a variety of insects to prevent dietary monotony.

Sample Weekly Feeding Schedule for an Adult Gecko

Day	Feeder Insect	Supplement
Monday	Crickets	Calcium
Tuesday	Mealworms	Multivitamin
Thursday	Dubia Roaches	Calcium
Saturday	Crickets	None
Sunday	Waxworms (as treat)	None

Following a structured feeding schedule helps maintain balanced nutrition and prevents obesity.

Common Feeding Issues and Solutions

Leopard geckos can sometimes exhibit issues related to feeding. Here’s how to handle common problems:

Refusal to Eat: Stress, environment changes, or shedding may cause temporary feeding refusal. If refusal persists for over a week, consult a vet.
Selective Eating: Some geckos may favor specific insects. Rotating food choices keeps them interested and ensures balanced nutrition.
Sickness or Injury: If your gecko shows signs of illness or injury, seek veterinary advice and consider supportive feeding options if they refuse solid foods.

Signs of a Healthy Feeding Routine

A leopard gecko that’s eating well will show steady weight gain in its juvenile stages and maintain a healthy body weight as an adult. Monitoring these indicators is essential to ensure your gecko’s overall health.

Key Health Indicators:

Regular interest in food
Steady weight gain (juveniles) or stable weight (adults)
Active, alert behavior around feeding times

Final Takeaways: Ensuring Dietary Health for Leopard Geckos

Feeding leopard geckos requires understanding their natural behaviors and creating an environment that encourages healthy feeding. A diet of live, varied insects enriched with calcium and other supplements provides essential nutrients that are crucial for growth, health, and vitality.

Maintaining a feeding routine based on their nocturnal activity and ensuring a balanced diet supports their well-being. By monitoring their feeding patterns, keeping up with dietary needs, and consulting a vet if unusual feeding behavior persists, you can create a rewarding experience for both you and your gecko.

With the right diet and care, leopard geckos can lead a long, healthy, and active life, enriching the bond with their keepers.

The post Leopard Gecko Feeding Behavior- A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Why Leopard Geckos Eat Their Skin – A Natural Process Explained

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:28:54 +0000

Leopard geckos, like many other reptiles, shed their skin regularly as they grow. However, unlike most reptiles, leopard geckos engage in a unique behavior: they consume their shed skin. This process is scientifically referred to as ceratophagia, which translates to “horn eating” — a phenomenon where animals consume their sloughed-off skin or keratin-based structures.

While this behavior might seem unusual to us, it is actually common among geckos and serves several practical purposes. Other gecko species, such as the African fat-tailed gecko (Hemitheconyx caudicinctus) and the banded gecko (Coleonyx variegatus), also exhibit this behavior, along with a few other reptiles and some crustaceans.

For leopard geckos, skin consumption is a part of their natural routine and contributes to their survival in the wild.

Shedding Process in Leopard Geckos

In healthy leopard geckos, the shedding process typically results in the old skin coming off in one large piece or a few substantial sections. These sections are often seen as being bitten and pulled off by the gecko itself, which then proceeds to chew and swallow them.

Shedding commonly occurs at night, a time when leopard geckos are most active. This nocturnal habit means that owners may rarely witness the shedding process firsthand, though small remnants of non-eaten skin may occasionally be found in their enclosure.

Leopard Geckos 101, an informative resource dedicated to leopard gecko care, encourages pet owners to understand these natural behaviors as a way to support and enhance the quality of life for these reptiles.

Why Do Leopard Geckos Eat Their Skin?

Despite the established fact that leopard geckos consume their skin, the specific reasons behind this behavior are not fully understood. However, there are a few widely accepted theories that can shed light on why this unusual habit may have developed.

Regaining Lost Nutrients

One of the primary reasons that experts believe leopard geckos eat their skin is to reclaim lost nutrients. Living in dry, arid environments, leopard geckos often face nutrient scarcity, especially when it comes to essential minerals. When they shed, the discarded skin contains valuable minerals and nutrients that would otherwise go to waste.

By consuming their skin, leopard geckos “recycle” these nutrients back into their bodies, maximizing the resources available to them. Additionally, the skin may contain small amounts of re-usable energy, which can be helpful in resource-limited environments.

Concealing Their Territory from Predators

Another theory suggests that leopard geckos eat their skin as a means of concealing their presence from predators. In the wild, any leftover skin could serve as a potential clue to predators, signaling a recent gecko presence and potentially leading to a closer investigation of the area.

By consuming their shed skin, leopard geckos effectively erase evidence of their presence, making it harder for predators to track them. This behavior could also reduce competition with other geckos by eliminating traces that might attract unwanted attention from rivals.

Assisting the Shedding Process

Beyond reclaiming nutrients and concealing their presence, the act of consuming shed skin may also aid in the shedding process itself. When leopard geckos bite and pull at their loose skin, they help to hasten the process, reducing the likelihood of skin retention.

Retained skin can be problematic for geckos, as it may constrict parts of their body, leading to restricted blood flow and, in severe cases, loss of toes or other extremities. By removing and eating their skin, geckos prevent these potential complications, ensuring a clean shed and maintaining their overall health.

Potential Risks of Retained Skin

Retained skin is a significant concern for leopard geckos, as it can lead to health issues if not properly managed. For instance, when skin remains stuck to toes or other parts of the body, it can cause constriction, which restricts blood flow and may ultimately result in the loss of the affected area.

This complication is especially dangerous in regions such as the toes, tail, or limbs, where circulation is already limited. Retained skin can also increase the likelihood of infections, which can spread rapidly and become life-threatening if left untreated.

In cases where a gecko struggles with shedding, the assistance of a qualified reptile veterinarian or knowledgeable pet owner may be required. Proper humidity levels, a suitable enclosure, and gentle handling during shedding periods can help minimize the risks associated with retained skin.

Nutrient Recycling: An Evolutionary Advantage

From an evolutionary perspective, nutrient recycling through skin consumption offers distinct advantages for leopard geckos. Unlike animals that rely on abundant resources in their environment, leopard geckos are adapted to survive in conditions where food and water may be limited.

The act of consuming their own skin allows them to make the most of every available nutrient, which can be particularly valuable during times of scarcity.

Studies have shown that the skin of leopard geckos contains trace amounts of essential minerals, such as calcium and potassium, which play a vital role in their physiological functions. Calcium, for example, is essential for bone health and muscle function, while potassium helps to regulate cellular processes.

By consuming their skin, leopard geckos can replenish some of these critical nutrients, reducing the need to source them externally.

The Role of Skin Eating in Leopard Gecko Habitat Management

In addition to nutrient recycling, skin eating also serves a practical purpose in the gecko’s habitat. By consuming shed skin, leopard geckos maintain a cleaner environment, reducing the presence of waste and potential odors that might attract predators.

This behavior, therefore, not only serves as a self-preservation mechanism but also helps leopard geckos establish and maintain a safe and concealed habitat.

In captivity, this behavior is equally beneficial, as it reduces the amount of maintenance required by pet owners. However, it’s essential to monitor captive geckos during their shedding process to ensure that any remaining skin is safely removed, particularly if the gecko appears to be struggling.

Shedding Frequency and Health Considerations

The frequency of skin shedding in leopard geckos varies based on their age, health, and environmental conditions. Young geckos, which are growing rapidly, may shed as frequently as once every few weeks, while adult geckos typically shed every four to eight weeks. Factors such as humidity, temperature, and nutrition all play a role in the ease and frequency of shedding.

Ensuring that a leopard gecko enclosure has the appropriate humidity level can significantly impact the shedding process. Low humidity levels may cause the skin to dry out too quickly, making it harder for the gecko to shed smoothly. In such cases, providing a humid hide or misting the enclosure can help support a healthy shedding cycle.

Addressing Skin Shedding Issues

While most leopard geckos shed their skin without any problems, some individuals may experience difficulties, especially if they are kept in conditions that don’t closely mimic their natural habitat. A lack of adequate humidity or access to rough surfaces within the enclosure may make it harder for geckos to shed completely.

For pet owners, providing a well-maintained and adequately humidified environment is essential. Leopard geckos benefit from having a “humid hide” — a small, enclosed area with higher humidity where they can retreat during shedding. This setup mimics the natural conditions they might seek out in the wild, helping them shed more effectively.

Conclusion- Understanding Leopard Geckos Skin Eating Behavior

In conclusion, the behavior of eating shed skin is a natural and beneficial process for leopard geckos. Although we don’t have all the answers to why they engage in this behavior, several plausible explanations exist.

By consuming their shed skin, leopard geckos likely regain valuable nutrients, avoid detection by predators, and aid in the shedding process itself, which helps maintain their health.

For leopard gecko owners, understanding this behavior is crucial to providing optimal care. Knowing that skin consumption is a natural part of their biology can help prevent unnecessary worry and enhance the way owners manage their pet’s enclosure and environment.

Leopard geckos are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors, and respecting these natural processes can lead to a more enriching and fulfilling experience for both the pet and the owner.

The post Why Leopard Geckos Eat Their Skin – A Natural Process Explained appeared first on Leopard Gecko.

Why Leopard Geckos Soak – Understanding Their Soaking Behavior

Dr. Liam Anderson — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 07:28:13 +0000

Leopard geckos are often seen soaking in their water dishes. Soaking behaviour is fairly common, and often normal, but it should also alert Leopard gecko keepers that potential problems might be present.

From time-to-time owners will found one, or all, Leopard geckos soaking in their water dish. Naturally, soaking is a great way to help loosen dry skin and aid in the process of skin shedding. Soaking behaviour in Leopard geckos might also be an indication that something is wrong, or at least that something can be improved upon. Excessive soaking behaviour in Leopard geckos can also be an indication of the following:

Leopard gecko skin shedding problems

Incomplete or difficult shedding in Leopard geckos will also be evident by spending a lot of time in the water dish. A healthy Leopard gecko usually sheds its skin in one complete piece or at least a few large pieces. The main reason for skin shedding problems in Leopard geckos is mite infections (see below) and not enough moisture in the hiding box.

The most important thing that will aid in normal skin shedding in Leopard geckos is the supply of a hide box containing a moist substrate. A correctly set up hide box will most often be enough to supply all the required humidity and will also serve as a place to hide during this fragile period. Popular hide box substrates include peat moss and vermiculite that is wetted with an equal amount of water. The substrate should not be soggy wet, but feel moist by touching it. Also see suitable substrates for Leopard geckos for more information.

Mite infections

Skin mites in Leopard geckos are small, tiny tick-like parasites that inhabit the outside skin layers. These parasites tend to get stuck and loosen the outer layers of the skin, leading to excessive skin shedding. By soaking a Leopard gecko knows that shedding will go faster, leading to less irritation and itches. Also see mite infections in Leopard geckos for more information.

A juvenile Leopard gecko being soaked in a bowl of water. Image by adyn02llee.

Overheating and dehydration

Soaking behaviour in Leopard geckos is often an indication that the environmental temperatures are too high. If overheating this is the case, a Leopard gecko is prone to become overheated and dehydrated which can be life-threatening on its own. Leopard geckos will thrive in temperatures of 25 – 32 ºC / 77 – 90 ºF with a drop to room temperature during the evenings. Anything higher than this is dangerous. The environmental temperature can be measured using a thermometer.

Soaking in water helps with cooling down and absorb water through the skin. In addition to soaking behaviour, a Leopard gecko might also try to escape the enclosure and/or breath with its mouth open. In these cases, the first thing to do is to remove all heating equipment from the enclosure and re-evaluate the temperature. Also see glass climbing behaviour in Leopard geckos for more information.

Impactions and/or obstructions

Very often dehydration is also a result of not enough moisture being absorbed through the intestines – e.g. in the case of intestinal obstruction. An intestinal obstruction will also be highly suspicious if a Leopard gecko has a swollen abdomen and/or is not eating and defaecating. If this is the case, the best thing to do is to get your Leopard gecko to a reptile friendly veterinarian as soon as possible.

The bottom line

When soaking behaviour seems excessive and there are other abnormal behaviour or signs, it is very often it is a good idea to consult an experienced herpetologist or a reptile friendly veterinarian for a consultation with the pet.

The post Why Leopard Geckos Soak – Understanding Their Soaking Behavior appeared first on Leopard Gecko.