Description:
Scientific name: Paroedura pictus
Life span: 5-10 years
It may also go by the names Madagascar ground gecko, fat-headed gecko, panther gecko, or pictus gecko in Madagascar. The ocelot gecko is a well-liked option among novices since it is colorful and full of personality. Other names for this fascinating species include panther gecko, pictus gecko, and Madagascar ground gecko. The base color of ocelot geckos is often reddish brown, with a dorsal stripe and dark banding.
Native Region/Habitat
In southern Madagascar, where they are endemic, ocelot geckos can be found on the forest floor or in scrubland.
Behavior:
These tiny geckos are renowned for their intriguing personalities in addition to their lovely patterns. Children can be jittery, but as they become older, they usually quiet down and become docile. Panther geckos are mostly nocturnal, which means that they won’t be very active during the day.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Housing: A 12x12x12 enclosure can house a single animal, a pair of animals, or a trio; an 18x18x12 enclosure can house three animals. Although a male can live with several females, he should never live with another male. The optimum substrate for this semi-arid species is one that can hold some moisture. Sand or Dig-It mixed with substrates made of coco fiber work well.
Feeding and Diet: The majority of what ocelot geckos eat in their native environment is insects. Feeder insects including crickets, roaches, mealworms, wax worms, and superworms can be fed to them in captivity. You may improve your feeders’ nutritional value by feeding them these things. Moreover, these geckos need extra calcium and vitamin D3 supplements once to twice a week.
Temperature: Ocelot geckos should be kept at a temperature of between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit at all times, with one side of the cage set aside for basking at between 80 and 85 degrees. Although they don’t need UVA or UVB light, giving it to them in moderation can help their immune system.
Humidity: A moderate humidity requirement for Pictus geckos is between 55 and 65% (up to 70 percent). Adequate ventilation and allowing the enclosure to dry between misting’s are crucial.
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