Gecko das Dunas

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults can reach 7.5cm

Origin: North Africa and the Middle East

Lifespan: Up to 8 years

Natural Habitat: Gecko das Dunas are found in arid and semi-arid environments, sandy plains and dune areas throughout North Africa and the Middle East.

Gecko das Dunas are a small nocturnal desert gecko species that can easily be kept in groups in relatively small spaces. They are very hardy, adapted to extreme conditions and therefore quite easy to keep in captivity. They are small and easy to care for, very attractive and have a very docile temperament. Overall, they are an excellent reptile species for beginners.

Although this is an easy species to keep, a few aspects require attention and certain conditions must be ensured, as described in the following paragraphs.

Terrarium

Size: A minimum terrarium of 30x30x30cm is recommended for 1 to 5 adults

Material: Glass or Wood

 - Heating and Lighting

A terrarium with a thermal gradient should be provided, with a minimum temperature of 24ºC on the cool side and around 35ºC at the hotspot. To ensure the correct temperatures in your Gecko das Dunas' terrarium , a Halogen or Neodymium lamp can be used at one end of the enclosure.  

Being a nocturnal species, Gecko das Dunas do not require UVB radiation. However, they can benefit from exposure to low levels of it (using a ShadeDweller lamp).

- Humidity

Gecko das Dunas are desert animals; however, it is important to lightly mist the terrarium at least once a week, especially inside the burrows/hides.

A container of clean, fresh water should also always be available.

- Decor

Gecko das Dunas come from arid, sandy areas, so the best way to keep them is on a smooth, dust-free sand substrate. The terrarium should have several burrows and hides spread throughout. Rocks, branches and plants (natural or artificial) can be used as decor. 

Diet and Supplementation

Feeding habits: Insectivorous

 Diet: They should be fed live insects 4 to 5 times a week.

- Foods

Insects: Fruit Flies, Crickets, Calcium Worms and small Roaches.

- Supplementation

For vitamin and mineral supplementation, every meal should be supplemented by dusting the insects with a good-quality Calcium and Vitamin Supplement (with Vit. D3). 

Under Portuguese Law No. 95/2017 of 23 August, the sale and/or advertising of wild/exotic animals through websites or online platforms is not permitted. To find out which animals we currently have available and their conditions of sale, please get in touch with us.