General care for Leaf Tail Geckos, additional research may apply
Intro to Leaf Tail Geckos
Leaf Tail Geckos are forest dwelling geckos from Madagascar that are becoming a popular pet. They are best known for their camouflaged appearance and tail that looks like a leaf. There are a variety of species which display different colors, patterns, and will grow to different sizes. With proper care and enrichment they can make rewarding pets for keepers with intermediate experience.
Leaf Tail Gecko Care
These geckos are primarily found hiding on logs, branches, and they will mainly utilize vertical space. You must decorate their enclosures with foliage, branches, and logs as this gives them security and enrichment. They need a low basking temperature of ~80 degrees F, an ambient temperature of ~70 degrees F, and a humidity level of ~80%. Combine that with a 5.0 UVB and your Leaf Tail is ready for success!
Leaf tails get their water intake from a regular misting schedule. Their diet is easy! They primarily feed on a variety of insects mixed this with a multivitamin and calcium. We recommend Coco, Eco Earth, or ReptiSoil for substrate. Giving them their proper care will ensure a life of 8+ years.
Leaf Tail Geckos For Sale in the Pet Trade
Leaf Tail Geckos usually seen in the pet trade:
Species | Size | Enclosure Size |
Satanic (U. phantasticus) |
~6" | 12”L x 12”W x 18”H or 18”L x 18”W x 24”H |
Giant
(U. fimbriatus) |
~1 1/2 feet | 24”L x 24”W x 48”H or 36”L x 18”W x 36”H |
Mossy
(U. sikorae)
|
~1 foot | 18”L x 18”W x 36”H or 24”L x 24”W x 48”H |
Lined
(U. lineatus)
|
~10" | 18”L x 18”W x 24”H or 18”L x 18”W x 36”H |
Reptile breeders are starting to heavily work with different species of Leaf Tail Geckos due to their growing popularity, but Captive Bred animals are not as common. The majority of these lizards that are in the pet trade are Wild Caught Imported Animals. Though imported animals may have a negative stigma, these are brought in legally with proper paperwork and in quantities that are allowed through governing laws.
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