Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are popular pet reptiles originating from arid regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq. Named for their spotted pattern resembling a leopard, they're small (8-10 inches), docile, and beginner-friendly among reptile pets. Leopard Geckos are nocturnal insectivores with specific care requirements.
Leopard Geckos typically live 15-20 years in captivity, with some reaching 20+ years with excellent care. They're a significant commitment—longer than many small mammals—requiring specialized nutrition, lighting, and habitat conditions.
Leopard Gecko Average Lifespan
Leopard Geckos live 15-20 years on average in captivity, substantially longer than wild geckos (10-15 years) due to protection from predators and consistent food availability.
- Hatchling (0-6 months): Rapid growth, feeding on small insects
- Juvenile (6-12 months): Continued growth, can be sexed accurately
- Sub-adult (1-2 years): Approaching adult size, sexual maturity evident
- Adult (2-10 years): Full size, breeding capable, peak health
- Senior (12+ years): Activity reduced, metabolic changes, increased health monitoring
Determining Leopard Gecko Age
Size Measurement: Hatchlings are 3-4 inches snout to vent. They grow about 1 inch per month in first year. Adults reach 8-10 inches total length.
Pre-Anal Pores: Males have visible pores above the cloaca; females don't. This becomes obvious around 3-4 months and remains reliable sexing indicator.
Activity Patterns: Young geckos are extremely active hunters, rapidly hunting live insects. Older geckos move more deliberately and may prefer easier-to-catch prey.
Tail Condition: Healthy geckos store energy in thick tails. Senior geckos may have thinner tails if food intake decreases.
Senior Leopard Gecko Care
Feeding Management: Senior geckos may reduce hunting intensity. Offer appropriately-sized insects (crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms). Monitor weight—significant loss indicates health problems.
Temperature Importance: Aging Leopard Geckos become more temperature-sensitive. Maintain basking spot at 88-92°F, cool side at 75-80°F. Older geckos may struggle thermoregulating.
Health Monitoring: Watch for metabolic bone disease signs (swollen jaws, bent limbs), respiratory infections (difficulty breathing), and eye problems (cloudiness, discharge). These require veterinary attention.
Reduced Handling: Minimize stress-inducing handling in senior years. Keep enclosure environment consistent and calm.
Extending Leopard Gecko Lifespan
- Proper enclosure (20-gallon long minimum for adult)
- Temperature management with under-tank heating pad (88-92°F basking spot)
- Varied diet of appropriately-sized insects
- Calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation (every other feeding)
- UVB lighting to enable vitamin D3 synthesis
- Humidity 30-40% (hides prevent overheating)
- Minimal handling to reduce stress
- Annual veterinary check-ups with reptile-experienced veterinarian
- Clean water available at all times in shallow dish