The Dust Day Gecko: A Comprehensive Guide to Care and Captivity

The dust day gecko (Phelsuma laticauda) is a small, diurnal lizard native to Madagascar. Known for its beautiful coloration and unique ability to shed its tail to escape predators, the dust day gecko has gained popularity as a pet among reptile enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide all the essential information you need to care for and maintain a healthy dust day gecko in captivity.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

The dust day gecko is found throughout the dry deciduous forests of western Madagascar. It is an arboreal species, meaning it spends most of its time in trees. Dust day geckos are typically found in association with acacia trees, which provide them with food, shelter, and nesting sites.

Physical Characteristics

Dust day geckos are relatively small lizards, with adults reaching an average length of 6-8 inches. They have a slender body and a prehensile tail. Their skin is covered in fine scales, which give them a dusty appearance. The coloration of dust day geckos varies, but most individuals have a green or brown base color with yellow or orange markings.

Diet

In the wild, dust day geckos feed primarily on insects, such as crickets, grasshoppers, and moths. They will also occasionally eat fruits and nectar. In captivity, dust day geckos can be fed a diet of crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. It is important to supplement their diet with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement to ensure proper bone growth and health.

Enclosure

A 10-gallon enclosure is sufficient for a single dust day gecko. The enclosure should be well-ventilated and have a secure lid to prevent escape. The substrate should be a mixture of coconut husk and peat moss, which will help to maintain humidity and provide a natural hiding place for the gecko. A variety of live plants should be provided to create a naturalistic environment and offer hiding places.

Temperature and Humidity

Dust day geckos are ectothermic, which means they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. The daytime temperature in the enclosure should be 85-90°F, with a basking spot of 95-100°F. The nighttime temperature can drop to 75-80°F. The humidity level should be maintained at 50-60%.

Lighting

Dust day geckos require 12-14 hours of light per day. This can be provided by a full-spectrum UVB bulb, which will help to prevent metabolic bone disease. The light should be turned off at night to allow the gecko to rest.

Behavior

Dust day geckos are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They are generally docile and easy to handle, but they can be skittish if not handled correctly. Dust day geckos are territorial, so it is not recommended to house more than one male in the same enclosure.

Breeding

Dust day geckos reach sexual maturity at 12-18 months of age. Breeding can occur throughout the year, but the peak breeding season is during the spring and summer months. Females lay two eggs at a time, and the eggs hatch after 60-75 days.

Health Considerations

Dust day geckos are generally hardy lizards, but they are susceptible to a number of health problems, including:

• Metabolic bone disease: This condition is caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3, and it can lead to weak bones and fractures.
• Respiratory infections: These infections are often caused by bacteria or viruses, and they can be fatal if not treated promptly.
• Parasites: Dust day geckos can be infected with a variety of parasites, including mites, ticks, and worms.

It is important to take your dust day gecko to the veterinarian for regular checkups to ensure its health and well-being.

Conclusion

The dust day gecko is a beautiful and rewarding lizard to keep in captivity. By providing them with the proper care and environment, you can help your dust day gecko live a long and healthy life.