Sammy the Spotted Leopard Gecko

Overview 

Eublepharis macularius

Small, friendly and generally easy to handle, leopard geckos are popular pets for first-time reptile pet parents. They are found in nature in Asia and the Middle East. Captive-bred, leopard geckos are available in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes. They are insectivores (insect eaters) and enjoy hunting for live insect prey. 

Typical leopard gecko appearance & behavior

•  They get their name from the leopard-like spots that cover the backs of adult leopard geckos

•  Many geckos lack eyelids but not leopard geckos! They can even blink and close their eyes while sleeping

•  Leopard geckos have a tail that can detach if grabbed by a predator, giving them time to escape

•  Nearly all geckos have a voice. Leopard geckos have a small “bark” they use if agitated but are not as vocal as other gecko species

• Leopard geckos have claws on their toes instead of sticky pads like other types of geckos. They are rarely found off the ground

•  They are nocturnal (active during the night) and hide under rocks or burrow into their substrate during the day

•  Leopard geckos will eat their shedded skin