Do Geckos Raise Their Young? A Complete Guide for Gecko Owners.

by

Geckos are fascinating creatures that are popular pets among reptile enthusiasts. One question that many new gecko owners have is whether geckos raise their young. In this complete guide for gecko owners, we will explore the reproductive system of geckos, their mating behavior, egg incubation, parental care behavior, raising gecko hatchlings, and common problems and troubleshooting.

Geckos and Their Reproductive System

Gecko Breeding Seasons

Geckos are known for their ability to reproduce quickly and efficiently. The breeding season for most gecko species usually occurs during the warmer months of the year, although some species may breed year-round. During the breeding season, male geckos will start to display territorial behavior and compete for females.

Mating Behavior in Geckos

Mating behavior in geckos is fascinating to observe. Male geckos will approach females and try to impress them with their displays of dominance. They may nod their heads, wave their tails, and make vocalizations to attract the female’s attention. Once the female has accepted the male’s advances, mating will occur.

Gecko Eggs and Incubation

How to Identify Fertile Gecko Eggs

Identifying fertile gecko eggs can be challenging for new gecko owners. Fertile eggs will usually be soft and pliable, while infertile eggs will be hard and brittle. You can also use a process called candling, which involves holding the egg up to a bright light to see if there are any developing embryos inside.

Incubation Temperatures and Humidity

Proper incubation temperatures and humidity levels are critical for the successful hatching of gecko eggs. The ideal temperature for most gecko species is between 82-86°F, and the humidity level should be around 80-90%. It’s essential to keep the eggs consistently moist during incubation to prevent them from drying out.

DIY Gecko Egg Incubation

Many gecko owners choose to incubate their eggs at home using DIY methods. Some popular methods include using a Styrofoam cooler, an aquarium, or a specialized reptile egg incubator. Whatever method you choose, make sure to monitor the temperature and humidity levels closely to ensure the best chance of success.

Parental Care Behavior in Geckos

Do Geckos Raise Their Young?

Contrary to what some people may believe, most gecko species do not raise their young. Instead, they will lay their eggs and leave them to hatch on their own. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, such as the African fat-tailed gecko and the crested gecko, which may exhibit some maternal care behavior.

Maternal Care in Geckos

Maternal care in geckos is relatively rare, but it does occur in some species. Female geckos that exhibit maternal care behavior will remain near their eggs after laying them and may guard them from predators. They may also lick and clean the eggs and regulate their temperature by sitting on them.

Paternal Care in Geckos

Paternal care in geckos is even rarer than maternal care. The only known example of paternal care in geckos is the giant leaf-tailed gecko, which will guard its eggs until they hatch. After hatching, the male will continue to protect the hatchlings until they are old enough to fend for themselves.

Raising Gecko Hatchlings

Hatchling Care and Feeding

Raising gecko hatchlings requires special care and attention. Hatchlings will need to be fed a diet of appropriately sized insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and their enclosure will need to be kept at the proper temperature and humidity levels. It’s also crucial to provide them with a suitable hiding place, such as a small cave or hide box.

Growth and Development Milestones

Gecko hatchlings grow and develop quickly, and it’s essential to monitor their progress regularly. Some growth and development milestones to look out for include shedding their skin, growing new tail segments, and reaching sexual maturity.

How to Sex Gecko Hatchlings

Determining the sex of gecko hatchlings can be challenging, but it’s essential for breeding purposes. The most reliable method for sexing geckos is to wait until they reach sexual maturity, at which point the differences between male and female geckos will become more apparent. However, there are some visual clues to look out for, such as the size of the gecko’s hemipenes or the presence of pre-anal pores.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Abandoned Gecko Hatchlings

If a female gecko abandons her eggs or hatchlings, it’s essential to take over their care immediately. Move the eggs or hatchlings to a suitable incubator or enclosure and provide them with the necessary care and attention.

Failure to Thrive and Growth Issues

If gecko hatchlings are not growing or developing properly, there may be a problem with their environment or diet. Make sure that their enclosure is at the proper temperature and humidity levels, and that they are being fed a balanced diet of appropriately sized insects.

Health Problems in Gecko Hatchlings

Gecko hatchlings are susceptible to a variety of health problems, such as respiratory infections, parasites, and metabolic bone disease. It’s essential to monitor their behavior and appearance regularly and seek veterinary care if any issues arise.

Conclusion

Closing Thoughts and Final Tips for Raising Geckos

Geckos are fascinating creatures that make excellent pets for the right owner. While they may not raise their young, they still require special care and attention during the breeding and hatching process. By understanding their reproductive system, incubation requirements, and growth and development milestones, you can provide your geckos with the best possible care and ensure their health and well-being.

ThePetFaq Team
Latest posts by ThePetFaq Team (see all)