Why is the Leopard Gecko such a great pet? 5 good reasons
Until recent years it’s fair to say that the Leopard Gecko was the most commonly kept lizard in the UK. Although it may have been overtaken in popularity by the Bearded Dragon, Leopard Geckos still make fantastic pets.
But what is it about the Leopard Gecko that makes it one of my all time favourite reptiles? And why should you consider caring for one as your next reptile pet?
1. They’re incredibly easy to care for.
All reptiles need specialist care and we should always do everything we can to keep them in the best health possible. But, Leopard Geckos are not very demanding and it’s easy to create the perfect home for them. During the day, we recreate the sun, and heat the air with a light bulb. At night, we recreate heat that is retained in the ground by using a thermostatically controlled heat mat.
Leopard Geckos not fussy eaters and will eat a variety of insects that have been dusted in vitamin and mineral powder. They’ll just drink water from their water bowl too, no need to mist the vivarium. For more detailed information, click here to view our care sheet.
2. They’re a family pet.
Due to their docile, placid nature, Leopard Geckos really are a pet for all members of the family. They’re happy to be held by children of all ages and will slowly walk across gentle hands. They’re not aggressive by nature but like all animals should be treated with respect. I have never seen a Leopard Gecko get upset or try to bite somebody, ever.
3. They’re extremely pretty.
Big doey eyes, leopard spots and a smile from ear to ear. These guys really are good looking animals. I don’t mean they’re good looking in the same way a Boa constrictor is good looking. I mean they are good looking in a cute, adorable way. Always guaranteed to make you say “Arhhhhh”.
As well as the common ‘leopard’ variety (which are still my favourite) you can now get Leopard Geckos in a variety of different colour morphs. Pure white ‘blizzards’ to bright orange ‘tangerines’ are on sale, all have the lovely Leopard Gecko temperament but if you like something a bit different they offer you some choice.
4. They’re long lived lizards.
A Leopard Gecko can easily live for over 20 years if cared for properly. If you don’t want to explain to your kids why Hammy the hamster has gone to the big cage in the sky, get a Leopard Gecko instead!
5. They’re very easy to breed.
In the right conditions, your Leopard Geckos will usually breed, on their own, without you needing to do anything. A lot of the time you will literally find a couple of unexpected eggs in their nesting box without even knowing your girl was gravid. Adult males will not get along but you can keep a harem of females together with one male. It’s very satisfying breeding your own animals so this is a big plus with Leopard Geckos.
Do you already have Leopard Geckos?
If you already have a leopard gecko you’ll already know what fantastic pets they are. Please feel free to leave a comment on our blog and share your experiences with your Leopard Geckos. If you are reading this on our facebook or in an email please click here to visit the blog and have your say.
Link to the Leopard Gecko care sheet
Link to products for setting up a Leopard Gecko vivarium
Link to our Leopard Gecko Facebook fan page
