Safe Ways to Hold a Day Gecko

The day gecko (Phelsuma) is a small bright green reptile native to the island of Madagascar. Unlike large geckos, it only reaches between 4 and 8 inches in length, with a life span of 3 to 15 years. Because of the day gecko's unique defense system, in which its skin and tail break off, it is recommended to not hold, pet or handle the species too much. However, during the life of a gecko there are occasions when handling is necessary.

  1. When to Hold

    • Day geckos, unlike other more tame reptiles, do not require being held, and even the slightest sense of danger or stress can cause skin breakage and tail loss. Interestingly enough, these little lizards are happiest in their tank being watched rather than handled. While it is not recommended to hold a day gecko, there are times when it is necessary such as during weekly tank cleanings and outings to the vet for a check-up.

    How to Hold

    • Day Geckos can on occasion become somewhat tame, which means that they can learn to trust a particular handler. However, holding is still not recommended by inexperienced owners. The correct way to hold a day gecko is to calmly usher the lizard into a small fishing net (one that does not allow the gecko to crawl out). Once it is inside the net, calmly, yet gently, grip the gecko by placing one thumb behind the head and the fingers around the body. Gingerly transfer the gecko into a safe well-ventilated container.

    Skin Care

    • Along with proper handling techniques, maintain tank conditions that provide optimal levels of moisture, temperature and substrate. Misting the tank once a day with non-chlorinated water is necessary to prevent dry and cracking skin. Correct temperatures that offer basking (85 degrees Fahrenheit) and cooler areas (75 degrees Fahrenheit) to rest also keep the day gecko's body temperature at healthy levels and prevent cracking as well. Two layers of substrates, that are safe and non-toxic, such as reptile tank carpet, bamboo branches, and non-toxic live plants, prevent skin and scale damage and encourage healthy climbing.

    Considerations

    • Day geckos are the most tender of all the gecko species and do not make great pets for those who like to shower physical attention on them. Ideally, this gecko should only be handled by experienced herpetologists because sever skin damage can compromise the health of the lizard. Keeping the tank at optimal conditions, feeding a healthy diet of gut-loaded crickets, sliced mango and a small dish of non-chlorinated water ensures good health inside and out. Day geckos also require UVB lighting in order to produce vitamin D3 and absorb calcium.