Desert leopard geckos are becoming increasingly popular among keepers and breeders due to their natural hardiness, ease of care, and beautiful colors and patterns resulting from selective breeding. These stunning creatures are native to the deserts of India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, where they have evolved to survive harsh temperatures and predators.
As nocturnal hunters, desert leopard geckos prefer to avoid the scorching heat and sun's light during the day and feed on live crickets and cockroaches at night. Although they are insectivores, they are not picky eaters and will consume anything that fits into their mouths.
To keep desert leopard geckos as pets, it is crucial to provide them with proper care and a suitable environment. A tank that is around 20 gallons per lizard is recommended, with hide boxes provided for the lizards to hide away from daylight. Heat is essential, with a warm area of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a cooler area of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Feeding is also critical, with live crickets being the preferred option as they provide much-needed stimulation. Mealworms can be given if the lizard is unable to hunt properly. To ensure a balanced diet, keepers can gut load the crickets with healthy fruits and vitamin-rich foods before feeding them to the geckos. Dusting the crickets with supplements such as vitamins and calcium is also recommended, as desert leopard geckos still require these essential nutrients even though they do not need UV lights to obtain them.