Leopard Gecko
Eublepharis macularius
Quick answer
The leopard gecko is a small, ground-dwelling lizard from the dry grasslands and deserts of South Asia, named for the dark spots that cover its yellowish skin. Unlike many geckos it has movable eyelids and lacks sticky toe pads, so it cannot climb smooth walls. Docile and easy to care for, it is one of the most popular pet lizards and often lives 15 to 20 years.
Leopard Gecko facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Eublepharis macularius |
|---|---|
| Diet | Insectivore |
| Habitat | Arid grassland and rocky desert |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years in captivity |
| Length | 18–25 cm (7–10 in) including tail |
| Top speed | Up to 12 km/h (7 mph) in short dashes |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Eublepharidae |
| Genus | Eublepharis |
Where it lives
The dry grasslands and rocky deserts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, northwestern India, and Iran.
Behavior and adaptations
Leopard geckos are nocturnal and crepuscular, sheltering under rocks during the heat of the day and emerging at dusk to hunt. Their plump tails store fat and water, helping them survive lean periods, and they can drop the tail to escape a predator before slowly regrowing it. Unlike wall-climbing geckos, they have clawed feet and eyelids rather than sticky toe pads.
Diet and feeding
These geckos are insectivores that hunt live prey such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. They detect movement and seize insects with a quick lunge, often pausing to wiggle the tail before striking. In captivity their feeder insects are usually dusted with calcium and vitamins to keep their bones strong.
Habitat and range
Leopard geckos are native to the dry uplands of Afghanistan, Pakistan, northwestern India, and Iran. They live in rocky, sparsely vegetated grasslands and deserts, where daytime heat gives way to cooler nights. They shelter in burrows and crevices to avoid temperature extremes.
As a pet
Leopard geckos are among the best beginner reptiles because they are small, calm, and easy to handle. They need a warm enclosure with a temperature gradient, hiding spots, and a moist hide to help with shedding. Selective breeding has produced many color and pattern varieties known as morphs.
Frequently asked questions about the Leopard Gecko
What do leopard geckos eat?
Leopard geckos are insectivores. They eat live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches, which in captivity are usually dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements.
How long do leopard geckos live?
With good care, leopard geckos commonly live 15 to 20 years in captivity, and some individuals live even longer, making them a long-term pet commitment.
Are leopard geckos good pets for beginners?
Yes. They are popular starter reptiles because they stay small, are generally docile, tolerate gentle handling, and have relatively simple heating and habitat needs.
Can leopard geckos climb walls?
No. Unlike many geckos, leopard geckos lack sticky toe pads, so they cannot climb smooth vertical surfaces. They have clawed feet suited to walking and digging instead.
Why do leopard geckos drop their tails?
A leopard gecko can drop its tail as a defense to distract a predator while it escapes. The tail regrows over time but is usually shorter and smoother than the original.
