Leopard gecko happy in his ideal habitat

Hey future leopard gecko parents! Have you ever wondered how to turn a regular tank into a dream home for a leopard gecko? Well, you’ve come to the right place because my checklist here will get you started the right way!

Leopard geckos are super cool pets – they’re chill, easy to take care of, and they’ve got adorable smiley faces. But just like us, they need a comfy place to call home. That’s where our trusty checklist comes into play. It’s like a treasure map, leading you to create a cozy, top-notch gecko habitat. So, buckle up, grab your adventurer’s hat, and let’s get started on this exciting journey!

  • Terrarium/tank: Leopard geckos are ground dwellers so they don’t climb that much. Therefore, you’ll want to choose a tank with more floor space than height. A 20-gallon tank is usually a good size for one gecko (see best tank for your gecko). But you can start smaller or go larger (see leopard gecko tank size).
  • Substrate/flooring: Leopard geckos can accidentally eat loose substrates like sand or gravel which can cause impaction in their guts (it’s unlikely but it is potentially deadly). It’s generally best to use paper towels, newspaper or tiles as these are safe choices. See leopard gecko substrate choices.
  • Heating: Leopard geckos require a temperature gradient in their terrarium, with a warm side and a cool side. You can use an under-tank heater or a heating mat to achieve this. See temperature for your leopard gecko terrarium.
  • Hides: You need at least two hides in their habitat – one on the warm side and one on the cooler side. A moist hide is also required, which helps with shedding. See more in leopard gecko hides.
  • Thermometer: To ensure that the terrarium is at the correct temperature, you’ll need a thermometer. Two thermometers are best, then you can have one for each side of the tank.
  • Lighting: Leopard geckos are nocturnal, so they don’t need as much lighting as other reptiles. However, a low-intensity UVB light can be good for their health. See leopard gecko lighting needs.
  • Water Dish: A shallow water dish should be provided for your gecko to drink from.
  • Food Dish: A shallow dish for mealworms or other live food is needed.
  • Calcium and Vitamin Supplements: These are essential for your gecko’s health. Dust the gecko’s food with these supplements according to the product’s instructions or a vet’s advice.
  • Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need supplies to clean the terrarium, including a reptile-safe disinfectant and paper towels.

And there you have it, folks! Just like a chef following a recipe, you’ve got all the ingredients you need to whip up a five-star habitat for your new scaly friend. Of course decorating your geckos tank is all part of the fun too.

[Also check out our longer guide to the perfect leopard gecko enclosure]

But remember, every leopard gecko is as unique as a fingerprint, so you might need to tweak a few things here and there until it’s just right. Keep an eye on your pet and see how they interact with their new home. If they’re as happy as a clam at high water, you’ve hit the jackpot! But if something seems off, don’t be scared to mix things up a bit.

With this checklist in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a cozy crib that your leopard gecko will absolutely love. So, go forth, unleash your inner interior designer, and make your gecko’s dream home a reality!