Tokay Gecko Care

Although not the friendliest of pets, the Tokay Gecko is a lizard that finds itself often adopted into loving human homes. Its attitude toward humans makes it more of a decorative pet than an interactive one, unless you fancy being bit. Like all reptiles, these creatures require a certain investment. Proper Tokay Gecko care is essential for a long life - and perhaps someday the ability to tame it.

These "pets" will not take an invasion sitting down. While you may think you are being affectionate by trying to pet it, he will not agree. Rather, he (or she) will see this as an invasion of privacy and will ensure you suffer for your crime. A single Tokay Gecko bite will last minutes and will most likely draw some blood. Shaking or submersing the animal in water, while perhaps your first reaction, are not safe ways to remove your unfriendly neighboorhood biter. A nudge or drop of liquid on the nose will suffice.

Tokay Geckos are insectivores and eat the same food as other geckos. This usually means insects and mealworms, as these are the most common foods sold in pet stores. However, in the wild, Tokay Geckos eat many more insects, worms, and other similarly sized creatures. They can even eat cockroaches.

To ensure your pet gets the right nutrition, it's usually recommended to also buy a supplement. If the supplement doesn't come with calcium, then it too should be given.

Feeding Schedule

• Infant geckos : every other day
• Adult geckos: every day
• Vitamin supplement should be given once a week
• Calcium supplement should be given every day

While prices for Tokay Geckos vary by store and region, they are typically affordable. Many pet stores in the United States will offer them anywhere between 15 and 20 dollars.

Because Tokay Geckos can have various sizes, it's difficult to recommend a one-size-fits all ideal habitat. However, unless your gecko is unusually large, a 10 Gallon habitat will do. However, a 20 Gallon habitat would be even better.

Should I go for length or height?

Tokay Geckos like to climb. Tall habitats are wonderful for them and will make them much happier than an aquarium-like habitat. Due to their climbing habits, it is best to have a very tight-fitting lid to make sure escape is impossible.

Substrate

Substrate is the bedding, or the "carpet", of the habitat. Since Tokay Geckos are tropical, it's better to go with a substrate that contains pellet-size pieces, rather than a sand-size substrate. Paper can also be used, though it won't be particularly fun for him or her.

Humidity and Temperature

Tokay Geckos need about 70% humidity. You should use a spray bottle to mist the habitat every day. Temperature should be between 70 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Since this is fairly hot, and most people don't have this level of heat available during each season, it is recommended to use an incandescent light. However, it doesn't go in the habitat; it lays on the lid.

Having a thermometer and a humidity reader inside the habitat makes the above requirements easier to check

Water "bowl"

A lot of water can be dangerous and messy, so it's best to use a very shallow "bowl". Usually, these will look more like plates with raised edges than bowls. The depth of the water will only be about a quarter inch.

Fun

• branches to climb on
• hiding spots (above ground preferred)

How large can the Tokay be and can it live with others?

These animals prefer to be alone, especially males, so it's best not to get them a companion. This shouldn't be too inconvenient as the large Tokay Gecko size would make it difficult to have two such animals living comfortably together. Tokay Geckos can often grow to 12 inches -and sometimes a little bit more.

When is a Tokay gecko an adult?

At about 1 year of age, the Tokay Gecko will be an "adult" in terms of breeding capabilities. However, it might not reach its full adult size until 2 years of age.

What is a normal Tokay Gecko lifespan?

10 to 20 years. The better care it receives, the more likely it is to live up to 20 years.