Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) - GENERAL MEGATHREAD for Wednesday, 3rd February 2021

Leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) have been kept in captivity for many years. Some think that the leopard gecko was the first domesticated species of lizard.

Their popularity has increased in recent years because of their small size, gentle temperament, and ease of care. They are a relatively long-lived species, with a life expectancy of up to 22 years. The oldest known leopard gecko is 28 years of age.

Physical Description

Most captive leopard geckos retain the color pattern of their wild counterparts: the dorsal body is light to dark yellow with numerous black markings, the ventral body is plain white, and the tail is banded.

The large tail serves as a reserve for fat. Tail autotomy is common in this species., they have small claws that suit their terrestrial lifestyle. They also possess movable eyelids. The average length of a leopard gecko is 8 inches (range of 7 to 10 inches).

Natural Habitat and Diet

Leopard geckos originate from northwest India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, with small populations in Iran and Iraq. The climate in these areas is arid and warm to hot for most of the year, and the geckos’ habitat is rocky, with clay-gravel soil below a layer of sand

Leopard geckos are a nocturnal or crepuscular species. In the daytime, they hide under rocks or in burrows that have a higher humidity than the ambient environment. Their natural diet consists of insects and other invertebrates as well as newborn rodents. They have been known to ingest sand as a source of calcium.

Conclusion

Leopard geckos are one of the most popular lizards in captivity today and are commonly seen in the veterinary clinic. It is important that veterinary technicians have a good understanding of their husbandry and nutritional needs so that they can educate clients on proper care to prevent common medical problems associated with poor husbandry and nutrition

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