Where is the leopard gecko from?

 

They are found throughout Iran, Afghanistan, Western India and Pakistan.

 

What is the difference between a gecko and a lizard?

 

Geckos are actually a type of lizard. The word lizard is a general term and can be used to refer other groups of similar species, such as our European legless lizard and alligator lizard that we have on display here at Kidspace. However, there are some differences. Lizards usually have scaly skin, while geckos will have thin bumpy skin. Also, lizards have external ears and moveable eyelids while most geckos only have a clear membrane over their eyes that they can lick clean instead of blinking. Many geckos also have the ability to climb smooth walls and glass surfaces due to specialized pads on their toes, which is something that other lizards cannot do. The leopard gecko is unique because it is one of the few gecko species which has eyelids and does not have the ability to climb smooth vertical surfaces.

 

How big do they get?

 

Adults can average 7 -10 inches in length.

 

How do they defend themselves?

 

Leopard geckos have the ability to detach parts of its tail or whole tail when threatened by a predator. They will raise and wave their tail slowly to attract a predator’s attention. If attacked it will leave some or all the tail behind, which allows it to get away.

 

What do leopard geckos eat?

 

In the wild, they mainly feed on a variety of insects. However, they are also known to eat small scorpions, centipedes, and even nestling rodents. Here at Kidspace “Lenard” is regularly fed a variety of insects and small mice on occasion.

 

How long do they live?

 

Male leopard gecko’s average lifespan in captivity is 10- 20 years, while females average 5-10 years in captivity.

 

Thank you for learning a little more about our Lenard our leopard gecko!