Mourning Gecko Care

Lifespan:

5-10 years in captivity.

Sexing:

These geckos are parthenogenetic, meaning they are all female and reproduce by cloning. There is no need to determine sex, as males are extremely rare.

Enclosure:

• Juveniles: 5-gallon vertical enclosure (12"x12"x18" minimum).

• Adults: 10-20 gallon vertical enclosure (18"x18"x24").

Substrate:

A loose, humidity-retaining substrate mix of coconut fiber and orchid bark works best, simulating the natural forest environment. This substrate helps maintain humidity, which is crucial for these geckos.

Lighting & Temperature:

• Basking Area: Not needed

• Ambient Temperature: 78-80°F.

• Cool Side: 70-75°F. 

• UVB Lighting: A 5.0 UVB bulb is recommended.

*Important: High temperatures (above 85°F) can cause significant stress and overheating.

Humidity:

Mourning Geckos require relatively high humidity levels between 60-80%. Mist the enclosure daily to maintain proper humidity levels and ensure the geckos can drink from the droplets on surfaces.

Food:

These geckos are omnivores. Offer a diet of commercial powdered gecko food mixed with water, supplemented with fruit puree and live insects like fruit flies and small crickets. Ensure that insects are gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and vitamins.

Water:

Mourning Geckos will primarily drink from water droplets on leaves or other surfaces after misting. 

Supplementation:

• Calcium with D3: Dust food 2-3 times weekly.

• Calcium without D3: Use on alternating days if adequate UVB lighting is provided.

• Multivitamins: Offer once weekly to support overall health.

With proper care, Mourning Geckos can thrive in captivity and offer a unique and rewarding pet experience. Their fascinating reproductive behavior and social nature make them a joy to observe, whether housed individually or in a group. These resilient and adaptive geckos are ideal for both novice and experienced keepers, showcasing the incredible diversity of the reptile world.