Tokay Gecko Care Sheet: A Guide for Intermediate and Experienced Keepers

by Jan 20, 2025

Tokay Gecko Care Guide

A Comprehensive Guide for Intermediate and Experienced Keepers

Tokay geckos (Gekko gecko) are vibrant, vocal, and fascinating reptiles known for their striking coloration and bold personalities. These arboreal lizards are native to Southeast Asia and thrive in tropical environments. While rewarding to keep, their unique care requirements and temperament make them best suited for intermediate to experienced reptile enthusiasts. Here’s everything you need to know to provide top-notch care for your tokay gecko.

Basic Information

  • Common Name: Tokay Gecko

  • Scientific Name: Gekko gecko

  • Lifespan: 10-20 years in captivity

  • Size: 10-14 inches (males are larger than females)

  • Temperament: Territorial and defensive; requires careful handling

Tokay Gecko on sand looking surface.

Enclosure

  • Tank Size:

    • Juveniles: Minimum 18x18x24 inches.

    • Adults: Minimum 24x18x36 inches for a single gecko.

    • Larger enclosures encourage natural behaviors and are recommended.

  • Material: Glass terrariums with a mesh top for proper ventilation.

Substrate

  • Options: Coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or bioactive soil.

  • Depth: 2-3 inches to support humidity and live plants if desired.

  • Avoid: Sand or loose substrates that can cause impaction.

Enrichment

  • Climbing Structures: Branches, vines, cork bark, and bamboo poles to mimic their arboreal habitat.

  • Hides: Multiple hides at varying heights, including a moist hide to aid shedding.

  • Plants: Use live or artificial non-toxic plants for cover and aesthetics.

tokay gecko temperature and humidity infographic

Lighting and Heating

Temperature

  • Daytime Gradient: 80-85°F on the warm side and 75-80°F on the cool side.

  • Nighttime: Can drop to 70-75°F but no lower.

  • Basking Spot: Provide a basking area of 90-95°F using a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter.

  • Monitoring: Use digital thermometers at various enclosure levels.

Humidity

  • Ideal Range: 60-80%, with spikes up to 90% after misting.

  • Support: Mist the enclosure 1-2 times daily and provide a shallow water dish.

  • Hygrometer: Use a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels accurately.

Lighting

  • UVB Lighting: Optional but beneficial for overall health and calcium metabolism.

  • Light Cycle: 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle to mimic natural conditions.

Feeding Schedule

  • Juveniles: Feed daily.
  • Adults: Feed 3-4 times per week.

Prey

  • Staple Diet: Gut-loaded and calcium-dusted insects, such as crickets, dubia roaches, and black soldier fly larvae.
  • Treats: Waxworms or mealworms occasionally (high in fat, so use sparingly).
  • Size: Prey should be no larger than the width of the gecko’s head.

Supplements

  • Calcium and D3: Dust insects 3-4 times per week for juveniles and twice a week for adults.
  • Multivitamins: Dust once a week.
Common Issues

  • Calcium Deficiency: Prevent with proper supplementation and UVB exposure.

  • Respiratory Infections: Caused by low temperatures or excessive humidity.

  • Shedding Problems: Ensure proper humidity and provide a moist hide.

Signs of a Healthy Gecko

  • Bright, alert eyes

  • Active climbing behavior

  • Vibrant, consistent coloration

  • Regular appetite and shedding

Fun Facts

Vocalizations: Tokay geckos are famous for their loud, bark-like calls that sound like “to-kay!”

Fun Facts

Powerful Bite: Their bite strength is impressive for their size, making them formidable defenders.

Fun Facts

Sticky Toes: Their toe pads allow them to climb smooth surfaces, including glass.

Fun Facts

Bright Colors: Males are typically more vibrantly colored than females, featuring blues, oranges, and yellows.

Fun Facts

Ancient Species: Tokay geckos have been around for millions of years, with little change in their evolution.

Tokay geckos are bold, beautiful, and captivating reptiles that require attentive care and respect. With their striking appearance and unique behaviors, they are a rewarding choice for intermediate to experienced reptile keepers. By providing a well-maintained habitat, proper diet, and minimal handling, you can ensure your tokay gecko thrives for many years to come.