The Gecko (Gekkonidae) is a commonly kept terrarium reptile and forms a large and diverse family of lizards found in a wide range of habitats around the world. Depending on the species, geckos live in dry desert regions, tropical rainforests, rocky landscapes or near houses and barns. Many geckos are mainly active at dusk and at night and are known for their remarkable adaptations, such as large eyes, specialised toes and, in some cases, the ability to store energy in their tail. The character and behaviour of geckos vary by species, but many geckos can be handled well with calm and consistent interaction. In captivity, it is important to recreate the natural habitat of the chosen gecko species as closely as possible, with appropriate temperature, lighting and enclosure setup. This way, you meet the basic needs and support the good condition and wellbeing of your animal.
Geckos occur naturally in large parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia and the Americas. Depending on the species, they live in a wide range of environments such as dry desert regions, rocky landscapes, tropical rainforests and urban areas. Many geckos are adapted to warm climates and seek shelter during the day under stones, tree bark or in crevices to avoid extreme temperatures. At dusk and during the night, many species actively search for food, while other species are active during the day. Due to this wide distribution and lifestyle, geckos have adapted to their environment in various ways.
The appearance of geckos varies greatly by species, but they often have a compact to slender body shape with a relatively broad head. Many geckos have specialised toes with adhesive pads, allowing them to climb smooth and vertical surfaces with ease. Other species lack these adaptations and mainly live on the ground. The skin can be smooth or granular, and colours range from subtle earthy tones to striking patterns and bright colours. Behaviour differs by species, but many geckos are mainly active at dusk and at night and spend the day resting in shelters. Some species can shed their tail when stressed, which later regrows. Geckos shed their skin regularly and usually lose it in one piece. Suitable enclosure design and proper humidity help ensure this process runs smoothly.
The gecko family consists of hundreds of different species, spread all over the world. They vary greatly in appearance, habitat and behaviour. Below are some well-known and commonly kept species:
How long a gecko can go without food depends on the species, age and overall condition. In general, healthy adult geckos can manage without food for one to two weeks without this causing immediate problems. Young geckos need food more frequently and therefore cannot go without eating for as long. During periods of stress, shedding or changes in their environment, a gecko may temporarily eat less. Prolonged refusal of food can lead to loss of condition and health problems, so it is important to monitor feeding behaviour closely and to check housing and care if you are unsure.
The best place to buy a gecko is from a specialised reptile shop, a recognised breeder or at a reptile expo. At these places, you are most likely to get a healthy animal and receive good information about its origin, age and care.
When buying a gecko, it is important to look out for:
What a gecko eats varies by species. Many geckos are insectivores and hunt crickets, cockroaches, locusts and other small invertebrates in the wild. Some species also eat nectar, ripe fruit or tree sap. In captivity, a gecko’s diet consists of live insects such as crickets, Dubia cockroaches and locusts. For species that eat nectar or fruit, special complete diets or fruit mixes can be used. It is important to gut-load prey insects properly before offering them and to regularly supplement them with a calcium and vitamin supplement to prevent deficiencies and bone problems. Do not feed insects collected from the wild, as they may carry pesticides or parasites. Fresh drinking water should also always be available.
Many geckos are able to make sounds, which is quite unique among lizards. The meaning of these sounds varies by species and situation, but they are mainly used for communication.
Geckos make sounds to:
The sounds range from soft clicks and squeaks to clear calling sounds. In some species, such as the Tokay gecko, these calls can be loud and clearly audible. In most cases, making sounds is normal behaviour and not a sign of illness, but sudden or extreme changes in behaviour may indicate stress.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) is a common condition in reptiles such as the leopard gecko. It develops due to a deficiency of calcium, vitamin D3 or insufficient UVB light. These three factors are closely linked: without enough UVB light, the body cannot produce vitamin D3, and without vitamin D3, calcium cannot be properly absorbed.
A lack of calcium weakens the skeleton and affects bone structure. The first signs of MBD are often subtle:
MBD can be prevented by regularly replacing UVB lighting (usually every 6 to 12 months), providing sufficient calcium and vitamin supplements, and ensuring the correct temperature and nutritional balance. A well-regulated terrarium and a balanced diet are therefore essential to prevent this condition.
The care and housing of a gecko depend greatly on the species. Some geckos mainly live on the ground, while other species live in trees and do a lot of climbing. The terrarium should therefore always be adapted to the natural lifestyle of the chosen species. As a general guideline, the enclosure should provide enough space for movement, hiding and, if applicable, climbing. A larger terrarium makes it easier to create different zones and supports natural behaviour. Always provide a clear warm zone and a cooler zone, as well as multiple hiding places, so the gecko can choose its ideal spot.
Geckos are cold-blooded and rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. Most species benefit from both a warm zone and a cooler zone within the terrarium. The exact temperatures vary by species but should always be stable and carefully controlled. Lighting is generally used for 10 to 12 hours per day to support a natural day and night rhythm. Some gecko species benefit from UVB lighting, while for other species this is less essential. Always use a reliable thermostat to safely regulate heat sources.
The setup of the terrarium should match the gecko’s natural habitat. Ground-dwelling species need suitable substrate and several hiding places, while tree-dwelling species require branches, cork and vertical structures. Choose materials that are safe and easy to clean. A water bowl with fresh water should always be available, even for species that mainly drink water droplets from leaves or decoration.
Geckos shed their skin regularly and usually lose it in one piece. Appropriate humidity levels and sufficient hiding places help ensure this process runs smoothly. After shedding, check whether the skin has come off completely, especially around the toes and tail. Daily removal of waste, refreshing drinking water and keeping the terrarium clean are important for good hygiene. By regularly monitoring the gecko’s behaviour and body condition, you can detect health problems at an early stage.
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