The Panther Gecko
(Paroedura pictus) is becoming very popular
to keep as a pet. They are also known as the Pictus
Gecko, Ocelot Gecko and Madagascar
Ground Gecko.
The Panther Gecko is a small nocturnal
gecko native to the island of Madagascar. Panther Geckos
are ground-dwelling lizards, spending their time among
the leaf litter and downed trees on the forest floor.
As mentioned they are quite small, growing to lengths
of about 6 inches.
Feeding Your Panther Gecko
The Panther Gecko will eat mainly
insects. Feed them a varied diet consisting of crickets,
mealworms, small
silkworms,
etc. Never feed your Panther Gecko an insect that is
larger than the width between their eyes. Make sure
the insects are gut-loaded and dusted with a multi-vitamin
supplement with every feeding when they are hatchlings,
and every second feeding when juvenile. When your Panther
Geckos become adults, feedings can be reduced to 3 or
4 times weekly, with dustings once a week.
Panther Geckos will get their water
from lapping up drops from leaves or other items in
the habitat. Some may lap water from a dish, and if
you provide one make sure it is very shallow and heavy,
to avoid it falling over.
Lighting, Temperature &
Humidity
The temperature should range from 70 degrees F to 85
degrees F from end to end. Humidity levels should be
maintained around 40% - 50%.
Panther Gecko Habitat
A 10 gallon habitat will suffice for a single Panther
Gecko. For multiple Panther Geckos, increase
the tank size 5 gallons for each additional gecko. Use
Reptile Carpet, paper towel or a mulch type substrate,
or a combination. Provide branches for climbing and
hide boxes, and a seperate hide box for each different
gecko. One of the hide boxes should also be kept moist,
to increase humidity and help with shedding. |
