Golden Gecko
(Gekko ulikovskii)

Golden geckos come from the rainforests of Vietnam. Male golden geckos are usually seven inches long while female golden geckos are smaller at five to six inches in length. Golden geckos do not like to be handled and are somewhat hyper and can stress easily. Golden geckos can and will bite when bothered.

Difficulty

NOVICE: Golden geckos are easily taken care of, as long as you are not planning on handling them often.

Requirements

An enclosure, such as:

• Glass or acrylic aquarium (10 gallons or larger, depending on the size and number of Golden geckos kept) with a secure lid with clamps

Substrate, such as:

• Crushed Coconut Shell
• Orchid Bark
• Sphagnum Moss

A heating element, such as:

• Incandescent heat bulb
• Ceramic infrared heat emitters

Enclosure

Adult Golden geckos will need a 10-gallon aquarium or larger sized cage if more than two Golden geckos are kept in the enclosure. Branches and rocks are needed for climbing and to provide basking areas. A secured screen top is needed for ventilation. Do not house two adult male golden geckos together as they are territorial and will fight for space in the enclosure. Because the golden gecko is an arboreal species, live potted or artificial plants can be used to provide attractive surfaces to climb on. Live plants can also help maintain the 65% humidity level that these Golden geckos require.

Substrate

The substrate or bedding that you use is one of the most important parts of your Golden gecko's home, since your Golden gecko will be spending much of its time on it. There are many substrates that can be safely used. Some of the most common include crushed coconut shell and orchid bark. Both of these substrates will help to maintain a higher humidity level for the golden gecko. Sphagnum moss can also be used to help raise the humidity. Be sure to clean it often to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Heating and Light

Golden geckos should have daytime temperatures of 75°F to 85°F with a 90°F to 95°F basking area under a spotlight. Nightime temperatures should be 65°F to 75°F. Golden geckos are nocturnal and do not require UV light for proper metabolic and bone development. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb or ceramic emitter can be used to provide heat. Many hobbyists will install thermometers or thermostats in the enclsosure to be able to accurately maintain these temperatures. We do not recommend the use of any kind of heat rocks as they can often lead to burns on your golden gecko.

Diet

Golden geckos are insectivores and will eat a variety of insects including crickets, mealworms, super worms, and wax worms. Be sure to gut load all prey before feeding your golden gecko. Fresh water should always be provided. Powdered vitamin/mineral supplement may be offered once or twice a week.