How to Teach Geckos

You can not teach a pet gecko to perform tricks like a dog or cat. A leopard gecko is an intelligent reptile, and with a little perseverance, you can teach your pet to recognize you as its owner and food provider. Teach your gecko hand-taming techniques and it will learn to come to you when you place your hand inside the vivarium. Never grab a gecko or try to pick it up against its will. When your gecko is hand-tame it will sit calmly on your hand, allowing you to take it out of the vivarium.

Things You'll Need

  • Wax worms
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your hand inside the vivarium, palm up, allowing your gecko to see your hand at all times. It will either run away, tentatively approach your hand with a friendly lick, or lunge and bite you. Be prepared for all of these reactions, and do not make any sudden movements, even if you receive a defensive nip. A leopard gecko bite does not hurt and it is unlikely to draw blood.

    • 2

      Repeat the routine of allowing your gecko to see your hand inside its vivarium until it appears comfortable with your presence. Once a day is adequate at first, limiting each session to a couple of minutes. Your leopard gecko will soon learn that you are not a threat. Talk to your pet during handling sessions to generate a soothing atmosphere and acclimate your gecko to noise outside the vivarium.

    • 3

      Place a wax worm on the palm of your hand if your gecko is not keen to interact with you at first, and you should start to see some progress. Take care when you hand feed your gecko inside the vivarium because you will probably receive a few accidental bites from your pet as it moves in for a worm. Remain calm and keep your hand still, even if it nips you.

    • 4

      Feed your gecko calmly by hand, and it will learn to trust you and associate your presence with safety and a reward. After two or three weeks you should be able to take your gecko out of the vivarium for short sessions and encourage further interaction. Take care not to frighten your pet on the first few occasions, and if it appears nervous, return it to a safe spot in the vivarium.