Types of Geckos: Popular Pet Species and Care Tips
Geckos are fascinating reptiles best known for their climbing ability and varied defence tactics, such as rattling scales or shedding a still-wriggling tail to escape predators. With over 1,600 species worldwide, many are kept as pets and each comes with unique care requirements. If you're considering adding a gecko to your family, finding a gecko for sale from reputable sources is a good starting point. Responsible ownership involves researching each type's specific needs before bringing one home.
1. Cat Gecko
The Cat Gecko is a sleek and elegant species cherished by collectors, easily recognised by its long snout and distinctive rust-brown colour with a cream underbelly and chin. Growing up to 7 inches long, their name derives from their habit of sleeping curled up with their tail over their eyes. They prefer climbing shrubs close to the forest floor and tend to be shy. For best welfare, house them singly unless breeding, and provide plenty of climbing opportunities to mimic their natural habitat.
2. Crested Gecko
One of the most popular beginner-friendly geckos, the Crested Gecko features tiny bumps around its eyes that resemble long eyelashes and crests running from the eyes down the neck. These geckos have tiny hairs on their toes and tail which help them climb various surfaces. They come in an array of colours including brown, grey, orange, red, and yellow. Notably, their tails do not regenerate if lost, though the healed stump prevents bleeding. They are hardy and easy to maintain but handling should be gentle to avoid stressing them.
3. Dwarf Yellow-Headed Gecko
A shy yet rewarding pet, the Dwarf Yellow-Headed Gecko only grows to about 3 inches. They display a striking contrast of a slate blue body set off by a bright yellow head with grey stripes. Offering them an environment filled with hiding spots like tubes, plants, and branches encourages natural curiosity while allowing secure retreats. With patience, they can become comfortable enough to feed from your hand, enhancing the bond between owner and pet.
4. Frog Eyed Gecko
This species is notable for its burrowing behaviour, often nesting in sand for temperature regulation. Its face is frog-like, with a short snout and large eyes, and it possesses distinctive fish-like scales used in defence and courtship displays. They require carefully controlled environments that simulate their natural high day temperatures and cooler nights, making their care more complex but rewarding for enthusiasts of unusual reptiles.
5. Giant Day Gecko
Hailing from Madagascar, the Giant Day Gecko grows up to 12 inches and thrives in humid conditions. Unlike many geckos that are nocturnal, this species is active during daylight, enjoying basking in sunlit branches. Their vivid green body is marked with a red "V" on the forehead and scattered red blotches. Adults store calcium in neck sacs, supporting healthy bone development. Due to their strong climbing ability, secure tanks are a must to prevent escapes. Handling should be minimal to protect their delicate skin.
6. Leopard Gecko
The Leopard Gecko is one of the first species to be domesticated and remains a popular choice for reptile owners. Characterised by a yellow body with discrete black spots for camouflage, they differ from many other geckos by possessing eyelids and being primarily nocturnal. They shed monthly and often consume their own shed skin, which may recycle important nutrients. When frightened, they drop their tail which remains mobile for up to 30 minutes to distract predators; the tail will regenerate though owners should avoid causing stress to prevent this defensive action.
7. Mediterranean House Gecko
Among the smallest geckos, growing between 3 and 5 inches, the Mediterranean House Gecko is well adapted to human environments, often inhabiting the nooks and crannies of houses. Their textured, stone-like skin varies from browns to creams, with almost translucent underbellies. Nocturnal hunters, they mostly consume moths attracted to light. Their small size means careful handling to prevent injury, with hygiene important to avoid transferring bacteria to their sensitive skin.
8. White Lined Gecko
White Lined Geckos are energetic climbers that can grow up to 10 inches, often kept in small communities thanks to their sociable nature. They display distinctive white stripes on their bodies but come in shades of green, brown, or tan. Heat lamps are essential during the day with cooler red bulbs at night, but owners must ensure these are out of reach to avoid burns. Providing a complex environment with ample cover allows them to hide during daylight hours, mimicking their natural preferences.
Responsible Gecko Ownership Tips
- Research Your Species: Each gecko species has unique habitat, temperature, and humidity requirements. Understand these fully before purchase.
- Secure Housing: Enclosures must prevent escapes and protect your pet from stress or injury, especially for climbing species like the Giant Day Gecko.
- Proper Diet: Most geckos eat insects, but specific dietary needs vary. Supplement with appropriate vitamins and minerals under vet guidance.
- Gentle Handling: Many geckos are delicate and stress-prone. Limit handling, especially for shy or rare species, and always wash hands before and after contact.
- Vet Care: Seek a reptile-savvy vet for routine health checks and if any signs of illness appear.
When acquiring a gecko, always opt to find a gecko from reputable breeders or rescues who prioritise animal welfare and provide healthy, well-socialised animals. Avoid impulsive purchases and ensure you are prepared to commit to the responsible care these captivating pets deserve.
