How to Tame a Tokay Gecko

The tokay gecko is a large gecko species known for its aggressive nature. It gets its name from its call, which sounds like "tow-KAY" when it vocalizes. The tokay gecko is normally a "display only" gecko, meaning it should not be handled because it can deliver a painful bite. Taming a tokay gecko is possible, but it takes a lot of time and patience.

Things You'll Need

  • Thick gardening gloves (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a captive-bred tokay gecko that is only a few weeks old if possible. The tokay gecko should be as young as possible in order to be tamed successfully. The younger it is when exposed to frequent handling, the more docile it will be when handled.

    • 2

      Put on the thick gardening gloves to protect your hands from painful bites. If possible, use leather gardening gloves instead of fabric ones. If the tokay gecko does bite the glove, its teeth can become stuck or broken in fabric.

    • 3

      Pick up your tokay gecko from its midsection, and be sure to place your thumb and forefinger on each of the sides of its neck, preventing its head from turning around and biting you.

    • 4

      Handle the tokay gecko every day for at least an hour. The only way to tame a tokay gecko is to handle it frequently and get it used to being held and touched by humans.