Leopard geckos and crested geckos are among the most popular reptile pets. Their welfare depends on precise environmental management and understanding of their natural behaviors.
Gecko welfare is largely determined by the quality of the thermal environment, lighting, humidity, and substrate provided. The most common welfare failures are inadequate thermal gradients (no cool retreat for thermoregulation), missing UVB lighting (causing metabolic bone disease over months), inappropriate substrate (impaction risk from sand in young leopard geckos), and lack of hiding opportunities causing chronic stress. Leopard geckos need a warm side of 29-32°C and a cool side of 24-27°C, achievable through under-tank heating with a thermostat. Crested geckos require cooler temperatures (22-26°C) and higher humidity, with vertical climbing structures. Both species benefit from multiple hiding spots that allow them to feel secure — exposed geckos show stress behaviors including tail waving and glass surfing. Diet must include gut-loaded live insects and appropriate calcium supplementation.