Day Geckos: Species Characteristics and Care

Day geckos refer to a group of over 60 species of small lizards with varying sizes, appearances, and behaviors. They originate from islands in the southwestern Indian Ocean primarily inhabiting Madagascar and Mauritius.

Popular pet day geckos include the giant day gecko, which can live up to 15 years, though they typically live six to eight years in captivity. Day geckos are generally unsuitable for beginner reptile keepers due to their high-maintenance nature. Easier day geckos to care for include giant day geckos, gold dust day geckos, and lined day geckos.

Day Gecko Behavior and Temperament

Unlike many lizards, including other gecko types, day geckos are diurnal. They are quite fragile, and handling is discouraged due to their delicate skin. Stress may lead them to drop their tails as a defense mechanism; while tails regenerate, it should not be intentionally provoked.

When threatened, day geckos might bite, though this is a last resort. A bite from a giant day gecko, the largest species, can be painful and may break the skin.

House day geckos separately. Males are particularly territorial, and even mated pairs may require separation if they fight.

These lizards are expert climbers, using tiny toe pad filaments called setae to cling to nearly any surface, including glass.

Day geckos require specific care and daily attention, best suited for those with prior reptile-keeping experience.

Housing the Day Gecko

Each gecko species has slightly different requirements, so research thoroughly to ensure you have the appropriate cage, lighting, humidity, and food ready for its arrival. Being well-prepared can reduce your gecko’s stress during its transition to a new environment.

Day geckos are adept escape artists. A glass tank with a securely closing screen top allows for proper ventilation and containment.

The exact cage setup will vary slightly with each day gecko species. Generally, they need a taller enclosure with branches for climbing.

Include bamboo stalks, branches, or live plants such as snake plants and bromeliads for climbing options and aesthetic appeal. Provide ample cover and hiding spots to ensure your day gecko feels secure.

You will need to spot clean the cage every day to remove visible feces and do a full cleaning with a reptile-safe disinfectant once a month.

Heat

Exact temperature needs vary by species, but generally, daytime temperatures should range between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with nighttime temperatures between 72 and 77 degrees. As ectothermic animals, reptiles regulate body temperature through a thermal gradient, allowing movement to different areas for temperature control.

Light bulbs can be the primary heat source, maintaining a 90-95 degree Fahrenheit basking spot. Use thermometers to monitor temperatures day and night.

If more heat is needed, especially at night, you can use ceramic heat emitters or under tank heating pads. Sometimes a variety of heat sources must be used to achieve ideal day and night time temperatures. To avoid burns, do not place heat sources too close or in direct contact with the gecko.

Light

Day geckos require ultraviolet light exposure, so use fluorescent, full-spectrum UVB-emitting reptile bulbs. Provide 10 to 12 hours of UV light daily, and replace bulbs every six months, as UVB emission diminishes even if the bulb continues to emit visible light.

Humidity

Day geckos require high humidity levels ranging from 60 to 80 percent, varying by species. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity accurately. Live plants and a suitable substrate help maintain moisture, along with regular tank misting. Consider an automatic mister or fogger for timed humidity control if you’re unavailable during the day.

Substrate

Most pet owners use a substrate or bedding to line the cage bottom. For day geckos, the proper substrate helps maintain humidity. Ideal substrates include peat moss, organic potting soil (without vermiculite), or orchid bark.

Food and Water

Insects, such as roaches, silkworms, waxworms, and butterworms, make up the bulk of a day gecko’s diet in captivity; some will also eat various tropical fruits such as papaya, mango, or even fruit baby food.

Most geckos consume three to five insects twice weekly, along with fruit baby food mixed with commercial nectar substitute once weekly. Juveniles and breeding females should be fed five to seven times weekly. Feed them in the morning when they are most active.

Feed insects slightly smaller than the space between the gecko’s eyes, and ensure they are gut-loaded with nutritious foods before offering them to your lizard. Dust insects and fruit with a multivitamin and vitamin D3/calcium powder at every other feeding.

Offer a small, shallow dish with fresh, filtered water daily, though they typically prefer drinking water droplets off leaves in their humid habitat.

Common Health Problems

Day geckos are susceptible to various health issues treatable by an exotics veterinarian.

• Skin disorders: Like most other reptiles, geckos need to shed their skin to grow and keep healthy; unsanitary conditions, improper humidity, or parasites can cause partial sheds.
• Parasitic infections: These can cause weight loss, bloody stools, vomiting, skin disorders and require an antiparasitic medication for treatment.
• Metabolic bone disease: This potentially fatal illness caused by a calcium and vitamin D deficiency leads to weakened bones; it can be treatable if caught early.

Choosing a Day Gecko

Obtain a day gecko from a reputable reptile breeder, as captive-bred geckos are less prone to disease. If possible, observe the gecko eating before purchase. They typically cost $50 to $250, with juveniles being less expensive due to a higher mortality rate. Adults and morphs (color variants) usually command higher prices.

A reputable breeder will provide a complete health history of the gecko. To find one, consult local exotics veterinarians and other reptile owners. Breeders can often be found at reptile expos and shows.

Healthy geckos sport clear eyes and hearty appetites. As long as they are not refusing food, they are likely in good health. Signs like dry, flaky skin or difficulty shedding can indicate parasites, infections, or improper husbandry.

Different Species of Geckos

If you’re interested in other gecko species, consider these: