House Gecko
The House
Gecko, scientific name Hemidactylus frenatus, is a native of southeastern Asia and the northern parts of Africa. Known as the Pacific house gecko or Asian house gecko, it is the most recently discovered member of a quartet of small, prolific and aggressive little lizards that become active at twilight. They can be seen climbing walls of houses and other buildings in search of insects attracted to porch lights, hence their name. Spread around the world by ships, these geckos are now common in the southern half of the United States as well as large parts of Australia. They grow to a length of between three to six inches, and live for about five years.
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House Gecko
Hemidactylus frenatus
General Info:
Length up to 6".
Since they are typically gentle inhabitants, house geckos are one of the most popular small geckos used in mixed terrarium exhibits. Due to their small, delicate frame, house geckos should not be handled frequently.
Temperature/Humidity:
Ideal daytime temperature for house geckos should range between 75 and 85 degrees. Additionally, a basking lamp should be used on one end of the enclosure to maintain a local temperature of 90-95 degrees. Nighttime temperature should remain between 65 and 75 degrees. The humidity for house geckos should be maintained at 75 percent.
Lighting:
Most geckos require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. Although nocturnal (mainly active at night) geckos don't require ultraviolet lighting, if it is part of the habitat design, it is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods.
Feeding/Watering:
House geckos do well on a diet consisting of a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. A shallow water bowl should be provided and changed daily. Adult house geckos should be fed 3-4 times per week, some juveniles can be fed twice daily during their growing period.
Habitat/Housing:
Successful permanent maintenance requires a 10 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. House geckos are arboreal (tree dwelling). Therefore, their habitat should emulate their natural surroundings). The enclosure must include a basking area with several climbing branches, a suitable hiding area, and a "cool" area to allow for thermoregulation. Cork bark is an excellent item to use with all geckos. The bark can be "layered" to allow the gecko many hiding and foraging areas. Artificial and natural plants also help to create a natural look. House geckos can be housed with similar species. If more than one animal is to be housed in a single enclosure, it is important to observe any aggressive behavior. If aggression is noted, the reptiles should be separated.
Substrate (Bedding):
Bed-A-Beast is an ideal substrate for house gecko terrariums.
Responsible pet ownership begins on the trip home!
For the best health and well being of your new pet, it is important to remember to take it directly home. If you have more shopping or errands to complete, consider picking up your pet last. This will ensure the animal encounters the least amount of stress possible. Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend "home". Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home. Wait three or four days before attempting to handle your pet and always supervise children when they interact with pets.