Common leopard gecko
A species of Leopard geckos, Also known as Afghan leopard gecko Scientific name : Eublepharis macularius Genus : Leopard geckos
Common leopard gecko, A species of Leopard geckos
Also known as:
Afghan leopard gecko
Scientific name: Eublepharis macularius
Genus: Leopard geckos
Content
Description General Info
Photo By JL Johnson , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) is a cathemeral, ground-dwelling lizard naturally found in the highlands of Asia and throughout Afghanistan, to parts of northern India. Unlike most geckos, leopard geckos possess movable eyelids, and cannot climb up smooth surfaces. It has become a well-established and popular pet in captivity.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Common leopard gecko primarily thrives on insects, showcasing an insectivorous eating pattern. Preferred dietary items include mealworms, crickets, and waxworms. This species requires a diet rich in insects, highlighting a quintessential carnivorous inclination.
Appearance
Common leopard gecko is a small and robust lizard, with a thick, stocky body covered in bumpy, textured skin. Its most distinctive trait is its wide variety of patterns and colors, ranging from yellows and browns to whites and blacks. This lizard is unique for both its eyelids, a rare feature among reptiles, and the absence of adhesive toe pads; instead, it has small claws. No significant differences exist between genders or subspecies in terms of physical appearance.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal, common leopard gecko engages in solitary, territorial behavior, with mainly scent marking used for territory demarcation. Common leopard gecko adapts to its arid environment by burrowing during day time to evade heat. It is an ambush predator relying on sit-and-wait strategy for hunting. Males of this species are known for their aggressive mating behavior.
Population
Stable
Photo By JL Johnson , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Eyelid geckos Genus
Leopard geckos Species
Common leopard gecko