How do you look after a marbled gecko?

Caring for a marbled gecko involves providing a suitable habitat, meeting their dietary needs, maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels, and ensuring their well-being. Here's a guide on how to look after a marbled gecko:

1. Enclosure:

- Provide a glass terrarium or plastic tub with a secure lid.

- The enclosure should be at least 20 gallons in size for adult geckos.

2. Substrate:

- Use a substrate such as a mixture of coconut husk fiber and peat moss.

- Avoid sand or gravel, as it can cause digestive problems if ingested.

3. Hiding Places:

- Offer several hiding places, such as rocks, cork bark, or commercial gecko hides.

- This helps the gecko feel secure and reduces stress.

4. Temperature and Lighting:

- Maintain a temperature range between 75-85°F (24-29°C).

- Use a heat mat with a thermostat to control temperature.

- Provide a UVB light source to support calcium absorption and overall health.

5. Humidity:

- Marbled geckos prefer a moderate level of humidity. Mist the enclosure with water regularly or provide a shallow water dish.

6. Diet:

- Feed mainly live insects, such as crickets and mealworms. Dust insects with a calcium supplement.

- Offer small prey items appropriate for the size of the gecko's mouth.

- Avoid feeding wild-caught insects, as they may carry parasites or diseases.

7. Water:

- Always provide fresh water in a shallow dish.

- Change the water regularly to prevent contamination.

8. Handling:

- Marbled geckos can be shy and stress easily, so handle them gently and infrequently.

- Support the gecko's entire body when handling and avoid grabbing the tail.

9. Health Checks:

- Monitor your gecko's health by observing their behavior, eating habits, and stool consistency.

- If you notice any changes or health concerns, consult a veterinarian experienced in reptiles.

Remember, each marbled gecko may have slightly different needs, so you may need to make adjustments based on their individual preferences. Provide regular care, attention, and a suitable environment to ensure the well-being of your marbled gecko.