looking after leopard geckos care hub
BeginnerEublepharis macularius

looking after leopard geckos Resource Hub

Looking after leopard geckos is easier with the right setup, feeding plan, and travel routine. Learn smart care steps and build a low-stress habitat today.

Lifespan

15-20+ years

Origin

Afghanistan, Pakistan, northwestern India, Nepal, and parts of Iran

Habitat & Setup

Tank Size

40 gallons

Substrate

Paper towels for quarantine, or a safe packed-soil/clay mix, slate, and tile-based desert setup for long-term housing

Lighting

Provide a 12-hour light cycle and low-level UVB if possible, using a properly mounted linear bulb and thermostat-controlled heat.

Temperature

Basking

90-94°F

Cool Side

72-77°F

Night

68-72°F

Humidity: 30-40%

Keep overall humidity dry, but provide a humid hide around 70-80% to support shedding.

Diet & Feeding

Diet Type

Insectivore

Schedule

Hatchlings daily, juveniles every day to every other day, adults 2-3 times weekly

Supplements

Calcium without D3 at most feedings, calcium with D3 1-2 times weekly if UVB is limited, multivitamin every 1-2 weeks

Foods

Dubia roachescricketsblack soldier fly larvaemealwormssilkworms

Temperature Gradient

Night 68-72°FCool Side 72-77°FBasking 90-94°F

Resource Hub

Everything About looking after leopard geckos

78 guides covering every aspect of looking after leopard geckos care — organized so you can find exactly what you need.

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Leopard Gecko Care Guide: Habitat, Diet & Health

The full care guide — habitat, diet, lighting, health, handling, and buying tips all in one place.

Best Products

Top-rated enclosures, lights, substrates, and gear — vetted and ranked.

37 guides

Best Arboreal Hides for Gargoyle Geckos (2026)

Choosing the right arboreal hides for your gargoyle gecko prevents stuck shed, fall injuries, and chronic stress. Here are our 5 expert-reviewed picks for 2026.

Best Bedding for Leopard Geckos: A Keeper's Guide

Struggling to choose the best bedding for your leopard gecko? Our 2026 guide breaks down safe vs. unsafe substrates, demystifies impaction risk, and shows you how to create the perfect setup.

Best Vitamins for Breeding Leopard Geckos (2026)

Breeding leopard geckos need supplements at every feeding — not alternating. See our 6 top calcium, D3, and vitamin picks to prevent MBD in gravid females.

Best Calcium for Albino Leopard Geckos (2026)

Albino leopard geckos can't tolerate UVB light, making calcium with D3 supplementation non-negotiable. We analyzed the 6 best products for MBD prevention.

Best Cork Bark for Geckos (2026)

Choosing the best cork bark for geckos matters more than you think. We researched 5 top picks for climbing, hides & bioactive builds. See our #1 pick now.

Best Calcium for Crested Geckos (2026)

CGD alone won't prevent MBD in juveniles. Find the best crested gecko calcium supplements to protect growing bones and prevent metabolic bone disease.

Best Heating Solutions for Gargoyle Geckos: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the best heating options for your gargoyle gecko, ensuring a comfortable and healthy environment. From heat mats to lamps, we've got you covered.

Best Travel Carriers for Leopard Geckos (2026)

We researched the best travel carriers for leopard geckos. Our top 6 picks for vet visits, moving, and road trips — plus essential heat pack safety tips.

Best Water Bowls for Geckos (2026)

Find the safest reptile water dish for your gecko. We researched 5 top bowls by depth, stability, and cleaning ease — see our top pick for hatchlings and adults.

Best Geckos for Handling: 7 Species Ranked

Looking for the best geckos for handling? We rank 7 species by temperament, ease of care, and how tame they get — ideal for beginners and experienced keepers alike.

Best Heat Lamp for Leopard Gecko: A Keeper's 2026 Guide

Confused about heating? Our expert guide reveals the best heat lamp for your leopard gecko, covering temperatures, wattage, UVB, and safe setup for a thriving pet.

Best Insect Gut Load for Leopard Geckos (2026)

We researched the best insect gut loads for leopard geckos — 6 products ranked by calcium content, ease of use, and keeper results. Fix your Ca:P ratio.

Best Insects for Crested Geckos: 6 Feeder Options Ranked (2026)

CGD alone is not enough. Crested geckos need live insects 1-2x per week — here are the 6 best feeder options ranked by protein, calcium, and practicality.

Best Feeder Insects for Gargoyle Geckos: 6 Picks That Work

Find the best feeder insects for gargoyle geckos — 6 keeper-approved picks ranked by nutrition, safety, and Ca:P ratio. Build a smarter feeding rotation today.

Best Leopard Gecko Accessories: Complete Setup Guide

Discover the best leopard gecko accessories: hides, heat mats, thermostats, UVB lights, décor, and more — everything your leo needs to thrive in 2026.

Best Leopard Gecko Calcium: A Complete Supplement Guide

Struggling to find the best leopard gecko calcium? Our expert guide covers D3 vs. no-D3, supplementation schedules, and top product reviews for 2026.

6 Best Leopard Gecko Enclosures (2026)

We analyzed the top leopard gecko enclosures of 2026. PVC vs glass comparison, size chart, and 6 expert-reviewed picks — from $200 budget glass to premium PVC.

Best Leopard Gecko Food (2026): Top Feeder Insects Ranked

Leopard geckos are strict insectivores. We ranked the 7 best feeder insects by nutrition, availability, and ease — dubia roaches, crickets, BSFL, and more.

Best Leopard Gecko Heating Mat: Top Picks & Guide

Find the best leopard gecko heating mat for your setup. Top picks, thermostat pairings, placement tips, and temperature guidelines to keep your gecko healthy.

6 Best Leopard Gecko Hides (Warm, Cool & Humid)

Expert-reviewed leopard gecko hides for the complete 3-hide system. Top warm, cool, and humid hide picks to eliminate chronic stress and improve sheds.

Best Leopard Gecko Humidity: Your Complete Guide

Struggling with shedding or respiratory issues? Our guide explains the best leopard gecko humidity levels, how to manage them, and the crucial role of a humid hide.

Best Feeder Insects for Leopard Geckos (2026)

Best feeder insects for leopard geckos ranked by Ca:P ratio, fat content, and safety — 7 picks with a feeding schedule and gut-load guide for every life stage.

6 Best Leopard Gecko Lay Boxes (Prevent Egg Binding)

Every female leopard gecko needs a lay box — even without a male. Compare the 6 best options to prevent deadly egg binding and keep your female leo healthy.

Best Leopard Gecko Lighting: UVB, Heat & Ambient Setups (2026)

The best leopard gecko lighting options for UVB, primary heat, nighttime heat, and ambient glow — reviewed for modern husbandry standards including low-level UVB.

Best Leopard Gecko Starter Kit: Complete Buyer's Guide

Find the best leopard gecko starter kit for beginners. We break down enclosures, heating, substrate, and accessories so you set up right the first time.

Best Leopard Gecko Supplements (2026)

The right leopard gecko supplement schedule prevents MBD. We analyzed 6 top picks for calcium, D3, and multivitamins — with a clear with/without UVB schedule.

6 Best Leopard Gecko Thermostats (2026)

Top leopard gecko thermostats for 2026: on/off vs proportional control explained, probe placement tips, and 6 expert-reviewed picks from $25 to $249 USD.

Best Leopard Gecko Vitamins: Top Picks for 2026

Find the best leopard gecko vitamins and calcium supplements to prevent MBD and keep your gecko healthy. Expert picks, dosing schedule, and what to avoid.

Best Place to Buy Leopard Geckos: A 2026 Keeper's Guide

Looking for the best place to buy leopard geckos? Our expert guide covers reputable breeders, rescues, and pet stores to help you find a healthy, happy pet.

9 Best Plants for Crested Geckos: Tank-Safe Picks (2026)

Not all crested gecko plants survive an adult's landings. We researched 7 vivarium-safe picks ranked by weight rating, light needs, and toxicity for 2026.

What Are the 7 Best Plants for Leopard Gecko Enclosures?

Most vivarium plants die in leopard gecko heat. These 7 arid succulents tolerate 85-110°F, thrive in dry enclosures, and some are safe for geckos to mouth.

Best Substrate for Crested Geckos: 7 Safest Picks (2026)

Best crested gecko substrate depends on your goal: simple cleaning or full bioactive. We researched 7 safe picks with a bioactive layering guide and cost breakdown.

7 Best Substrates for Leopard Geckos (Safe & Bioactive)

Compare 7 expert-reviewed substrates for leopard geckos — from bioactive pre-mixes to budget DIY blends. Includes safe options and 5 substrates to avoid.

Best Temperature for Leopard Gecko: Complete Guide

Discover the best temperature for leopard gecko health. Learn exact basking, cool side, and nighttime temps — plus how to set it all up correctly.

Best Terrarium for Leopard Gecko: Top Picks & Setup Guide

Find the best terrarium for leopard gecko with our expert guide. Covers minimum size, top tank picks, heating, hides, and full setup tips for a thriving gecko.

Best UVB Light for Leopard Gecko: 5.0 or 10.0 UVB?

The best leopard gecko uvb lighting options, researched for Ferguson Zone 1 compliance and albino morph safety. Find the right bulb for your setup today.

Best Vines for Crested Geckos (2026)

Find the best vines for crested geckos in 2026. We researched 6 top picks for grip, humidity durability, and FTS prevention. See our #1 pick.

Comparisons

Side-by-side species comparisons to help you choose the right reptile.

19 guides

Bearded Dragon vs Leopard Gecko: Which Pet Lizard Is Right for You?

Bearded dragon vs leopard gecko: compare daily care time, UVB lighting needs, diet complexity, brumation risk, and true costs to find your ideal lizard.

Leopard Gecko vs Blue Tongue Skink: How Much Lizard Do You Actually Want?

Leopard gecko vs blue tongue skink: compact desktop pet vs room-demanding floor lizard. Find out which fits your space, budget, and lifestyle before you buy.

Leopard Gecko vs Crested Gecko: Key Differences for Beginners

Leopard gecko vs crested gecko — honest side-by-side comparison of care difficulty, handling temperament, diet, lifespan, setup costs, and which is best for beginners.

Aloe Vera vs Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)

Head-to-head comparison of Aloe Vera and Jade Plant (Crassula ovata). See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% vs Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO

Head-to-head comparison of Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% and Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Bearded Dragon vs Leopard Gecko: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Compare Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko side by side — size, cost, diet, temperament, and care difficulty. Find your perfect pet.

Bio Dude Terra Sahara vs Zoo Med ReptiSoil

Head-to-head comparison of Bio Dude Terra Sahara and Zoo Med ReptiSoil. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Exo Terra Glass Terrarium 36x18x18 vs REPTI ZOO 34-Gallon Front-Opening Terrarium

Head-to-head comparison of Exo Terra Glass Terrarium 36x18x18 and REPTI ZOO 34-Gallon Front-Opening Terrarium. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Exo Terra Gecko Cave Medium vs Reptile Hide Box Black Plastic

Head-to-head comparison of Exo Terra Gecko Cave Medium and Reptile Hide Box Black Plastic. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Exo Terra Snake Cave Medium vs Zilla Rock Lair Medium

Head-to-head comparison of Exo Terra Snake Cave Medium and Zilla Rock Lair Medium. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Herpstat 1 vs Inkbird ITC-308

Head-to-head comparison of Herpstat 1 and Inkbird ITC-308. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Josh's Frogs Dubia Roaches vs Josh's Frogs Crickets

Head-to-head comparison of Josh's Frogs Dubia Roaches and Josh's Frogs Crickets. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Leopard Gecko vs African Fat-Tailed Gecko: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Compare Leopard Gecko and African Fat-Tailed Gecko side by side — size, cost, diet, temperament, and care difficulty. Find your perfect pet.

Leopard Gecko vs Ball Python: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Compare Leopard Gecko and Ball Python side by side — size, cost, diet, temperament, and care difficulty. Find your perfect pet.

Leopard Gecko vs Corn Snake: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Compare Leopard Gecko and Corn Snake side by side — size, cost, diet, temperament, and care difficulty. Find your perfect pet.

Leopard Gecko vs Gargoyle Gecko: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Compare Leopard Gecko and Gargoyle Gecko side by side — size, cost, diet, temperament, and care difficulty. Find your perfect pet.

Repashy Calcium Plus vs Fluker's Repta Vitamin with Beta Carotene

Head-to-head comparison of Repashy Calcium Plus and Fluker's Repta Vitamin with Beta Carotene. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Zen Habitats 4x2x2 PVC Enclosure vs Exo Terra 36x18x18 Glass Terrarium

Head-to-head comparison of Zen Habitats 4x2x2 PVC Enclosure and Exo Terra 36x18x18 Glass Terrarium. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Zoo Med ReptiHabitat Bearded Dragon Kit (20 Gallon) vs Exo Terra Leopard Gecko Starter Kit

Head-to-head comparison of Zoo Med ReptiHabitat Bearded Dragon Kit (20 Gallon) and Exo Terra Leopard Gecko Starter Kit. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.

Recommended Gear

Habitat Gear

Exo Terra 36 x 18 x 18 Glass TerrariumBest Overall
View on Amazon

This front-opening terrarium gives an adult leopard gecko the floor space it needs while making fast weekday feeding and cleaning easier.

Heating

Zoo Med ReptiTemp Digital ThermostatBest Value
View on Amazon

A reliable thermostat prevents overheating while you're at work and removes guesswork from daily temperature control.

Lighting

Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 7% UVB KitTop Pick
View on Amazon

This low-output linear UVB kit is a strong fit for leopard geckos when mounted correctly over a warm side zone.

Humidity

Govee WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer
View on Amazon

Remote alerts help busy owners catch temperature or humidity problems before they become emergencies.

Feeding

Exo Terra Worm Dish
View on Amazon

A smooth-sided feeding dish helps contain mealworms and keeps feeding simple on rushed evenings.

Fluker's Calcium with Vitamin D3
View on Amazon

This supplement makes it easier to maintain a consistent calcium routine, especially in setups with limited UVB.

Related Species

Frequently Asked Questions

A healthy adult leopard gecko can usually handle 3 days alone if heat, light, and water are stable. Food should be offered before the trip, and a quick human check is still smarter than complete isolation.

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