Tank: Appropriate size for your gecko species, substrate (6-10qt), digital thermo-hygrometer, feeding ledge and cups, Frugivore diet, branches and decor, foliage, misting bottle, small basking light, UVB lightin
Day geckos prefer a vertically oriented habitat. Cage sizing will depend on the age and species of gecko: Neon/Lined/Gold Dust/Peacock: Adult Cage Size (up to a pair): 12x12x18
Madagascar Giant:
Adult Cage Size (single): 18x18x24 (pair): 18x24x24/18x18x36Coconut or peatmoss-based substrate are good for holding humidity. Jungle Mix, Reptisoil, and Bio Dude Terra Fauna all work well. Moss can be added to keep humidity levels up. The basic layering in your substrate is as follows: drainage layer, bioactive substrate (such as terra fauna), moss layer, springtails and isopods, and finally a leaf litter layer.
Day geckos should have a small basking spot with a temperature of 88-93 degrees. UVB can be provided in 10.0/12% spot UVB or 5.0/6% linear.
Day geckos make their home in the rainforests, so they need high levels of humidity, around 70%, with frequent misting to stimulate drinking. They should also have access to clean water in a dish.
Day geckos prefer an environment around 70% humidity, to maintain this, they should be misted daily. If humidity level is still not proper with daily misting, the screen top of the enclosure can be partially covered, or moss can be added. The soil should not stay constantly wet and should dry some between misting.Premade frugivore diet, a powder-based diet has been formulated to meet their nutritional needs. Additional live insects should be feed occasionally.
Young geckos should be fed every 48 hours. Adult animals can be fed 3 times a week. Food should always be removed after 24 hours. Gecko diet should be mixed with filtered water to a barbeque sauce or ketchup consistency. Day geckos prefer to eat elevated, and a feeding ledge is recommendedDay geckos should be given lots of hiding places, a proper tank should be full of branches, and foliage.
There are lots of plant options for your bioactive day gecko tanks. Since they are stout bodied lizards who like to jump, thicker stemmed plants with larger leaves are preferred. Pothos is a great choice for them. Ferns, other ivy’s and moss ground covers are also all great options for a gecko tank. When using live plants full spectrum lighting is required this can be provided in both T5 linear form or LED lighting.Spot clean your geckos cage as needed. Any waste on the glass can we wiped off with water, avoid using cleaners with your animal still residing in the tank. Substrate should be changed every 4-6 months unless a bioactive setup is being used.
Day geckos should not be handled. They are quite fragile and their skin can come off if handled.
Metabolic Bone Disease occurs when the geckos are given insufficient calcium and vitamin D3.
Symptoms include deformed limbs, brittle and soft bones, lethargy, and decreased appetite.
This is easily prevented by providing the appropriate diet, with insects dusted with a quality calcium supplement.
Dehydration can occur with insufficient humidity and misting.
Day Gecko
Size: 4-10 inches
Lifespan: 20-25 years
Diet: Fruit & Insects
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Flighty - do not handle
Activity: Diumal