The Ultimate Leopard Gecko Setup
Forget the starter kits. Here is the vet-approved, evidence-based guide to building a safe and thriving habitat for your new gecko.
1. The Enclosure Size
Size matters. A small tank is not just cramped; it makes it impossible to create the necessary temperature gradient for your gecko's health.
- Minimum Size: A 20-gallon long tank (30" x 12" x 12") is the absolute minimum for one adult.
- Gold Standard: A 40-gallon breeder or a 4x2x2 PVC enclosure is highly recommended for a thriving animal.
- Floor Space > Height: Leopard geckos are terrestrial. They need room to walk, not climb.
2. Heating & Lighting
WARNING: Never use "Heat Rocks." They cause severe, life-threatening burns. Heat mats are outdated and less effective.
Leopard geckos are "crepuscular" (active at dawn/dusk) but still benefit from overhead heating that mimics the sun.
- Primary Heat: Use a Halogen Flood Lamp or Deep Heat Projector (DHP) for deep muscle penetration.
- Mandatory Control: Every heat source must be connected to a thermostat to prevent overheating.
- Temps: Aim for a warm side of 88-92°F and a cool side of 70-75°F.
3. Safe Substrate
The wrong substrate can cause impaction (a deadly blockage). Choose wisely based on your experience level.
- Safe Solid Options: Paper towels, slate tile, or a textured reptile carpet are easy to clean and 100% safe.
- Safe Loose Option: A 70/30 mix of organic topsoil and playsand is excellent for natural digging behavior.
- AVOID: Calcium sand, walnut shells, and wood chips. These are major impaction risks.
4. Hides & Enrichment
Security is paramount. A stressed gecko will not eat or thrive. You need a minimum of three hides.
- Warm Hide: Placed on the warm side, directly under the heat source.
- Cool Hide: Placed on the opposite cool side of the enclosure.
- Moist Hide: A humid hide with damp moss is essential for proper shedding.
- Clutter: Add fake plants, branches, and rocks to provide cover. A bare tank is a scary tank.
5. Essential Supplements
In captivity, feeder insects are not enough. You must supplement their diet to prevent Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD).
- Calcium w/ D3: Dust insects at every feeding for growing geckos, and every other feeding for adults.
- Multivitamin: Dust insects once a week to provide essential vitamins.
- Plain Calcium Bowl: Leave a small cap of plain calcium (no D3) in the tank at all times.
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