Key Takeaway:
- Ocelot (Pictus) Geckos are visually appealing and relatively easy to care for, but they do require proper housing, diet, and care to thrive in captivity.
- Ocelot Geckos have unique characteristics and behaviors, which can make them interesting and entertaining pets to observe.
- It is important to provide Ocelot Geckos with regular veterinary care and socialization to keep them healthy and happy.
- If you are considering an Ocelot Gecko as a pet, make sure you are willing to commit the time and resources necessary to properly care for them.
Ocelot or Pictus geckos, also known as banded geckos, are small, colorful lizards that make great pets for reptile enthusiasts.
These geckos are native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and are known for their striking patterns and docile temperament.
Ocelot geckos are relatively easy to care for, but require specific conditions to thrive in captivity.
In this care sheet, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for your ocelot gecko, from setting up their enclosure to providing proper nutrition and handling.
Whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you give your ocelot gecko the best care possible.
Species Overview
The Ocelot Gecko or Pictus gecko (Paroedura picta) is a species of gecko that is native to the island of Madagascar. Here are some key facts about this species:
Appearance:
- Ocelot (Pictus) Geckos are small to medium-sized geckos, typically measuring around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length.
- They have slender, elongated bodies and narrow, pointed heads.
- Their coloration is highly variable, but typically includes shades of brown, grey, and cream, with darker markings or spots resembling ocelot spots.
- They have large, rounded eyes with vertical pupils and adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb and cling to surfaces.
Habitat and Distribution:
- Ocelot Geckos are found throughout Madagascar, where they inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and rocky areas.
- They are primarily nocturnal and spend their days hiding in crevices or under rocks.
- They are considered a relatively common species and are not currently listed as threatened or endangered.
Behavior and Diet:
- Ocelot Geckos are insectivores, feeding primarily on a variety of small insects and invertebrates.
- They are generally solitary and territorial and will defend their territory from other geckos.
- Like many gecko species, Ocelot Geckos are capable of shedding their tails as a defense mechanism.
- They are not typically kept as pets but are occasionally bred in captivity for the pet trade.
Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko Behaviour and Temperament
Ocelot Geckos are generally considered to be docile and relatively easy to handle.
They are not typically aggressive towards humans, and will usually only bite if they feel threatened or provoked.
In the wild, Ocelot Geckos are primarily nocturnal and spend their days hiding in crevices or under rocks.
They are solitary and territorial and will defend their territory from other geckos.
When threatened, they will typically run or climb away to safety or may use their tail-shedding defense mechanism.
In captivity, Ocelot Geckos are relatively low-maintenance pets.
They require a secure enclosure with plenty of hiding places and should be provided with a temperature gradient within their enclosure to allow them to regulate their body temperature.
They are insectivores and should be fed a diet of appropriately-sized live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
While Ocelot Geckos can be kept in groups, it is important to ensure that each individual has enough space and hiding places to establish their territory.
It is also recommended to avoid housing different gecko species together, as they may compete for resources or transmit diseases to one another.
Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko Lifespan
The lifespan of Ocelot Geckos can vary depending on several factors, such as their genetics, diet, and living conditions.
In general, Ocelot Geckos can live for around 5-8 years in captivity, although some individuals may live longer if they are well-cared for.
It is important to note that proper care and attention to their needs can help to ensure that Ocelot Geckos live healthy and happy lives.
This includes providing a suitable enclosure with appropriate temperatures and humidity levels, a varied diet of live insects, and regular veterinary check-ups to monitor for any potential health issues.
It is also worth noting that the lifespan of Ocelot Geckos in the wild is largely unknown, as they have not been studied extensively in their natural habitat.
However, it is thought that they may face threats such as habitat loss and predation from other animals, which could impact their lifespan and population numbers in the long term.
Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko Care Sheet
Ocelot Geckos are generally considered to be docile and relatively easy to care for, making them a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts.
In this care sheet, we will cover the basic guidelines for providing proper care to Ocelot Geckos in captivity, including enclosure setup, temperature and humidity requirements, diet, handling, and health considerations.
Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko Diet
Ocelot Geckos are insectivores, meaning they primarily feed on insects in both the wild and in captivity.
Diet in the Wild
In the wild, Ocelot Geckos will consume a variety of insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and beetles, as well as smaller invertebrates like spiders and centipedes.
Diet in Captivity
In captivity, Ocelot Geckos should be fed a varied diet of appropriately sized live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
It is important to ensure that the insects are properly gut-loaded with a nutritious diet before feeding them to the gecko and that they are dusted with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement to ensure proper nutrition.
Fruits
Ocelot Geckos are insectivorous. They are not known to eat fruits. Their primary diet consists of different kinds of live insects.
Vegetables
Much like fruits, ocelot geckos are also not known to eat vegetables.
You can, however, feed your ocelot gecko commercially available diet powders in combination with live insects.
Bugs
You can feed your ocelot gecko gut-loaded crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
Feeding Schedule
Feeding schedules for Ocelot Geckos will vary depending on their age and size. Younger geckos may need to be fed more frequently, while adult geckos may only need to be fed every other day.
It is important to monitor the gecko’s weight and adjust its feeding schedule accordingly to ensure that they are maintaining a healthy body condition.
Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko Tank
When it comes to creating an appropriate environment for an Ocelot Gecko, several factors must be considered, including tank types, tank size, housing, heat, light, humidity, and substrate.
Tank Types
Ocelot Geckos can be housed in glass or plastic terrariums, which provide a safe and secure environment for the gecko.
Tank Size
A 10-gallon tank is sufficient for a single adult Ocelot Gecko, but larger enclosures are recommended for multiple geckos.
It is important to provide adequate space for the gecko to move around and explore its environment.
Housing the Ocelot Gecko
The enclosure should include hiding spots such as rocks, logs, and artificial plants to provide a sense of security for the gecko.
A small dish of water should also be provided for drinking and soaking.
Heat
Ocelot Geckos require a temperature gradient within their enclosure, with a warm side of 75-80°F and a cool side of 70-75°F.
A basking spot with a temperature of 80-85°F should also be provided.
Light
Ocelot Geckos are primarily nocturnal and do not require UVB lighting.
However, a low-wattage heat bulb or ceramic heat emitter can be used to provide additional warmth if needed.
Humidity
Humidity levels should be maintained at 60-70%, with occasional misting of the enclosure to provide moisture.
It is important to avoid keeping the enclosure too damp, as this can lead to health issues such as respiratory infections.
Substrate
The enclosure should be lined with a substrate such as a coconut coir or sphagnum moss.
Avoid using substrates that can cause impaction, such as sand or gravel. Substrates should be spot-cleaned regularly, and completely replaced every few months.
Common Health Problems
Like any animal, Ocelot Geckos are susceptible to a variety of health issues. Below are some common health problems that may affect Ocelot Geckos:
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): MBD is a common condition that affects reptiles, including Ocelot Geckos. It is caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3 in the diet and can lead to weak bones, muscle tremors, and difficulty moving.
- Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections are often caused by improper temperature and humidity levels in the gecko’s enclosure. Symptoms may include lethargy, loss of appetite, and labored breathing.
- Parasites: Parasites such as mites and ticks can infest Ocelot Geckos, leading to skin irritation, itching, and even anemia.
- Impaction: Impaction occurs when a gecko ingests an indigestible material, such as sand or gravel. This can lead to a blockage in the digestive tract, which can be fatal if left untreated.
- Mouth Rot: Mouth rot, also known as infectious stomatitis, is a bacterial infection that affects the mouth and gums of reptiles. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, and discharge from the mouth.
Healthy Vs Unhealthy Ocelot (Pictus) Gecko
Healthy Ocelot Geckos are generally active, alert, and have bright, clear eyes. They will have smooth skin without any visible bumps, lumps, or abrasions.
A healthy gecko will have a good appetite and will consume food regularly.
On the other hand, unhealthy Ocelot Geckos may display a range of symptoms, depending on the nature and severity of the underlying health problem. Signs of an unhealthy gecko may include:
- Lethargy and a lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dull, sunken eyes
- Discharge from the mouth or nostrils
- Bumps, lumps, or abrasions on the skin
- Open sores or lesions
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling in the limbs or abdomen
- Abnormal posture or behavior
- Irregular shedding
Are Ocelot (Pictus) Geckos Good Pets?
Yes, Ocelot (Pictus) Geckos can make great pets for the right person.
They are active and curious, and generally have docile temperaments, making them fun and interesting to watch.
They are also relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in captivity if provided with appropriate housing, diet, and care.
Summary
In conclusion, Ocelot (Pictus) Geckos can make great pets for those who are willing to properly care for them.
They are visually appealing, relatively small, and have docile temperaments.
However, they do require a certain level of commitment and responsibility, including proper diet, housing, temperature and humidity levels, and veterinary care.
