What Do Geckos Eat? A Comprehensive Guide to Geckos’ Diet!

Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia and are known for their distinctive eyelashes. They are a popular choice for first-time gecko owners as they are low maintenance and have a gentle disposition. They grow up to 10 inches in length and have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos are native to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India. They are one of the most popular geckos kept as pets due to their docile nature and ease of care. They grow up to 10 inches in length and have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

Day Geckos

Day geckos are native to Madagascar and are known for their vibrant colors. They are diurnal, which means they are active during the day and sleep at night. They require more care than other geckos due to their specific temperature and humidity requirements.

Other Gecko Species

Other gecko species that are kept as pets include African fat-tailed geckos, Tokay geckos, and house geckos.

Understanding a Geckos’ Diet

Natural Habitat and Diet

Geckos are insectivores, which means they primarily eat insects. In the wild, they feed on a variety of insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and flies. They also eat spiders and other small arthropods. Some species of geckos also feed on fruit and nectar.

Feeding Schedule

Geckos should be fed every other day. The amount of food they require depends on their size and species. It’s important not to overfeed geckos as they can become overweight and develop health problems.

Factors That Affect Appetite

Geckos’ appetites can be affected by various factors such as temperature, humidity, and stress. If the temperature or humidity levels are not optimal, they may not eat. Stressful conditions, such as overcrowding or lack of hiding places, can also affect their appetite.

What Do Geckos Eat?

Insects

Insects are the primary food source for geckos. Some of the most common insects fed to geckos include crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and silkworms. It’s important to provide a variety of insects as they each have different nutritional values.

Fruit and Vegetables

While insects are the main food source for geckos, some species also eat fruit and vegetables. Fruits such as bananas and papayas can be used as a treat. Vegetables such as kale and carrots can also be added to their diet.

Protein and Calcium Supplements

Geckos require a balanced diet that includes protein and calcium. Protein can be provided through insects and supplements such as mealworms and superworms. Calcium can be provided through supplements or by dusting insects with calcium powder.

How to Feed Your Gecko

Feeding Techniques

There are various feeding techniques for geckos. One common method is to place the insects in a feeding dish. Another method is to hand-feed the insects to the gecko. It’s important to ensure that the insects are of an appropriate size and not too big for the gecko to swallow.

Food Presentation

Geckos are attracted to movement, so wiggling the food in front of them can encourage them to eat. It’s also important to ensure that the food is visible to the gecko and not hidden under substrate or decorations.

Feeding Tips for Different Gecko Species

Different gecko species have different feeding requirements. Crested geckos, for example, have a sticky tongue and prefer to eat fruit puree. Leopard geckos are meat eaters and require a diet high in protein.

Conclusion

In conclusion, geckos are insectivores that require a balanced diet that includes protein and calcium. Feeding them a variety of insects and supplements is important to ensure that they receive all the nutrients they need. It’s also important to consider the specific feeding requirements of different gecko species. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your gecko remains healthy and happy.

ThePetFaq Team