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Leopard Gecko

Eublepharis macularius

GeckosBeginner care
Leopard Gecko

🌍 Overview

Found across arid regions from Pakistan to northwestern India, leopard geckos are ground-dwelling lizards that shelter in rocky outcrops and dry grasslands by day. Unlike most geckos, they have true eyelids and lack toe pads, making them unable to climb glass. They are among the most widely kept reptile pets in the world, with over 100 recognized color morphs in captivity.

📋 Quick Facts

Native Range

Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, India, Nepal

Natural Habitat

Rocky desert, arid grassland, and dry scrubland

Adult Size

7–11 inches (18–28 cm)

Wild Diet

Insects, scorpions, small lizards, and worms

Wild Lifespan

15–22 years

Conservation Status

Least Concern (IUCN)

🤩 Fun Facts

🦎 Gecko Toe Magic

Geckos can walk on walls and ceilings thanks to millions of tiny hair-like structures on their toes called setae. Each toe has about 500,000 of them, using molecular forces to stick to surfaces!

🦎 Tail Fat Reserves

Leopard geckos store fat reserves in their thick tails. A skinny tail can signal poor health or stress. A healthy gecko should have a plump, rounded tail.

🦎 Rediscovered in 1994

Crested geckos were thought to be extinct until they were rediscovered in 1994 in New Caledonia! They're now one of the most popular gecko species in the hobby.

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🤓 Did You Know?

Unlike most geckos, leopard geckos have eyelids and can blink and wink at you! They also store fat in their chunky tails for energy reserves.