Gecko da Areia da Namíbia

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults can reach 10cm

Origin: Southern Africa, mainly Namibia and Angola.

Lifespan: Up to 10 years in captivity.

Natural Habitat: Gecko da Areia da Namíbia inhabit desert environments with sand dunes in the Namib Desert.

Pachydactylus rangei are small nocturnal desert geckos, known for their unique adaptation to sand dunes – including webbed feet that help them move across sandy surfaces – and for glowing in the dark under black light. They are a fascinating, hardy and relatively easy species to care for, making them ideal for beginners and experienced breeders alike. Besides their unusual appearance and curious behaviour, they are docile and can be kept in small groups, provided their specific needs are met.

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 40x30x30cm is recommended for 1 to 2 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 38ºC at the hotspot. To ensure the correct temperatures in your Gecko da Areia da Namíbia' terrarium, a Halogen or Neodymium lamp can be used at one end of the enclosure.  

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

- Humidity

Gecko da Areia da Namíbia 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 da Areia da Namíbia 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 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.