Key Takeaway:
- The size of the enclosure is an important factor to consider when housing a Tokay Gecko. The enclosure should be at least 20 gallons for one gecko.
- Proper lighting and temperature are crucial for a Tokay Gecko’s health and well-being.
- The enclosure should have a basking spot with a temperature of 90-95°F during the day and cooler at night at around 75-80°F.
- Humidity levels in the enclosure should be maintained at 60-80% to ensure your gecko is hydrated and shedding properly.
- Isopods can be added to the enclosure to help keep it clean, but it’s important to make sure they are an appropriate size for your gecko.
- Mesh cages should not be used for Tokay Geckos as they do not provide adequate security or insulation.
- Additionally, Tokay Geckos require access to clean, fresh water at all times in a shallow bowl.
Are you considering adding a Tokay Gecko to your family of pets? These captivating reptiles are known for their distinctive appearance and unique personalities, but caring for them requires proper knowledge and preparation.
One of the most critical aspects of keeping a Tokay Gecko is creating a suitable enclosure with a comfortable and healthy living space.
This article will guide you through the different types of enclosures and the requirements for housing a Tokay Gecko, including size, lighting, temperature, humidity, decoration, and water.
Following these guidelines can help ensure that your gecko stays healthy and happy in their new home.
So, whether you are a first-time pet owner or an experienced reptile enthusiast, read on to learn more about creating the perfect habitat for your Tokay Gecko.
Habitat
The Tokay Gecko is a tropical species native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Nepal, and Malaysia. They are primarily found in warm, humid environments such as rainforests, bamboo groves, and plantations.
They are arboreal, meaning they are tree-dwelling and have adapted to living in elevated areas. In their natural habitat, they are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding in the foliage during the day.
When setting up an enclosure for your Tokay Gecko, it’s important to consider their natural habitat. As a tree-dwelling species, they require a tall enclosure with plenty of branches and foliage to climb and hide in.
The enclosure should also be kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level to mimic their natural environment.
Types of Enclosures
There are various types of enclosures available for Tokay Geckos, including glass terrariums, PVC reptile cages, and custom-built wooden enclosures.
- Glass terrariums are a popular option as they provide good visibility and are easy to clean.
- PVC cages are also a good choice as they are lightweight and provide excellent insulation.
- Custom-built wooden enclosures can be a great option if you’re looking for something specific, but it’s important to ensure that the wood is untreated and non-toxic.
When choosing an enclosure, it’s important to consider the size and age of your Tokay Gecko.
As they can grow up to a foot long, they require a decent amount of space to move around. The minimum recommended enclosure size for one adult Tokay Gecko is 20 gallons, but larger enclosures are always better.
Additionally, the enclosure should be escape-proof and have a secure locking mechanism to prevent your gecko from getting loose. We have a detailed guide on tokay gecko accessories.
Tokay Gecko Enclosure Requirements
When it comes to setting up an enclosure for your Tokay Gecko, there are several requirements that must be met to ensure their health and happiness.
Size
Tokay Geckos are one of the largest gecko species, with males averaging around 13-16 inches in length. As such, they require a decent amount of space to move around.
A 20-gallon container is the minimum suggested size for one adult Tokay Gecko, however larger enclosures are usually preferable.
For two geckos, the minimum enclosure size should be 30 gallons, and for every additional gecko, add an extra 10 gallons.
It’s important to note that a larger enclosure allows for more room to climb, hide and explore, which can help keep your gecko active and stimulated.
Lighting
Tokay Geckos are nocturnal animals and they require UVB lighting for proper growth. A low-wattage white or blue light can provide a day/night cycle, with 10-12 hours of light followed by 12-14 hours of darkness.
It’s important to note that Tokay Geckos are sensitive to bright light, so the light should not be too strong or too close to their basking spot.
Temperature
Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for your Tokay Gecko’s health and well-being. The enclosure should be kept at a temperature range of 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day and 65-75°F (18-24°C) at night.
A heat source such as a ceramic heat emitter or heat mat can create a warm basking spot, but make sure it’s not too hot or too close to your gecko.
A digital thermometer can monitor the temperature, and a thermostat can regulate the heat source.
Humidity
Tokay Geckos require a moderate to high humidity level in their enclosure, with a range of 60-80% humidity ideal.
Humidity can be maintained by misting the enclosure with water several times a day or using an automatic misting system.
Additionally, a humidity gauge should be used to monitor the humidity level, and a substrate such as coconut fiber or sphagnum moss can retain moisture.
Decoration and Plants
Decorating your Tokay Gecko’s enclosure is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides environmental enrichment.
The enclosure should have plenty of branches and foliage for climbing and hiding, and a substrate such as coconut fiber or sphagnum moss can create a naturalistic look.
Live plants such as pothos or bamboo can provide additional hiding places and help maintain humidity levels.
Isopods
Isopods, also known as “clean-up crew,” can be added to your Tokay Gecko’s enclosure to help keep it clean. These small crustaceans feed on waste and dead insects and help maintain humidity.
However, it’s important to make sure that the isopods are not too big for your gecko to eat, as this can cause digestive issues.
Can A Tokay Gecko Live In A Mesh Style Cage?
Mesh cages are not recommended for Tokay Geckos. While they may be suitable for some reptiles, mesh cages do not provide the necessary security or insulation for Tokay Geckos.
These geckos are known to be escape artists and can easily climb out of a mesh cage.
Additionally, mesh cages do not retain heat or humidity well, which can be detrimental to your gecko’s health. It’s important to provide a secure enclosure with solid walls and proper insulation to ensure your gecko is safe and healthy.
Does Tokay Gecko Need A Water Bowl?
Yes, Tokay Geckos require a water bowl in their enclosure. They need access to clean, fresh water at all times, as dehydration can lead to serious health problems.
The water bowl should be shallow enough for the gecko to access easily and should be cleaned and refilled daily to ensure that the water remains fresh.
Additionally, some geckos may prefer to soak in their water bowl, so providing a larger bowl or a shallow dish can be beneficial.
Summary
If you are considering getting a Tokay Gecko as a pet, knowing how to house and care for these fascinating reptiles properly is important.
One of the most important factors to consider when housing a Tokay Gecko is the size of the enclosure.
It is recommended that the enclosure be at least 20 gallons for one gecko, with an additional 10 gallons for each additional gecko.
Proper lighting and temperature are also crucial for your gecko’s health and well-being. The enclosure should have a temperature of 80-85°F. Humidity levels should be maintained at 60-80% to ensure that your gecko is properly hydrated.
Decorating the enclosure with plants and providing isopods can help create a more naturalistic environment for your gecko.
However, it’s important to make sure that any plants you use are non-toxic and safe for your gecko to be around.
Isopods can help keep the enclosure clean, but it’s important to make sure they are an appropriate size for your gecko.
When it comes to the type of enclosure, mesh cages should be avoided as they do not provide adequate security or insulation for Tokay Geckos.
Additionally, your gecko will need access to clean, fresh water at all times in a shallow bowl.
