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Tokay Geckos (Gekko gecko)

     Tokay geckos are medium sized geckos found throughout Southeast Asia.  They are active at night and can be found climbing on almost any surface.  These geckos can vocalize and received their common name from the sounds that they make.  They typically vocalize when they are threatened or to protect their territory from rival geckos.  Tokay geckos do not have any eyelids and they keep their eyes clean by licking them throughout the day.  Adults can reach 10-14 inches in total length and males are larger than females.  Tokay geckos are sexually mature within two years.  Male geckos are aggressive towards other males and it is best to keep one male with several females.  To sex your adult gecko examine the base of the tail, males will have a noticeable bulge. Healthy female geckos will produce 1-2 eggs each month and will continue to reproduce for several months a year.  Female tokay geckos can also store sperm and can lay viable eggs without a male being present.  When properly incubated, tokay gecko eggs hatch within 100 days.  Tokay geckos can drop their tails and they are able to regenerate a new tail.  Tokay geckos are nocturnal and to fully enjoy them we recommend a red light for viewing at night.  Red lights do not disturb nocturnal reptiles, just make sure to follow the temperature guidelines below.

Temperature and UV Lighting

     Tokay geckos require temperatures under the heat light to range from 84-90 degrees and night time temperatures can range from 68-75 degrees.  Proper temperature enables tokay geckos to properly digest food and allows the immune system to function normally.  Tokay geckos are nocturnal species and UVB lights are not usually necessary for proper health.  However, it is possible that wild geckos are active in the early morning and evening and are exposed to some UVB light from the sun.  Our recommendation is to use UVB lights especially if live plants are used to decorate the cage.  The UV light needs to be on 12 hours during the day and off at night.  Also it is very important to change your UVB light every 6-8 months, after this time the light stops producing adequate UVB.  If you’re not sure if your UV light is still producing UVB, bring it in and we’ll be happy to test the light for you.  Tokay geckos do best with humidity maintained between 60-80 percent and daily misting will accomplish this.   

Calcium

     Tokay geckos also require a calcium and vitamin supplement. This supplement works with the UVB light allowing the lizard to receive the proper amounts of calcium and vitamins. This should be used every day as babies and reduced to 1-2 times a week as adults.  Calcium is sold in a powder form and is sprinkled on the insects that you feed your gecko.  You should apply a very light coating to the food items, being careful not to waste any excess powder.

Housing

     Tokay geckos require a cage that has a lot of climbing room.  Vertical cages are an excellent choice and you should provide multiple hiding spots.  Cages can also be set up with live plants for a naturalistic appearance. 

Food and Water

     Tokay geckos should be fed appropriate sized crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and superworms.   A mixed diet of these food items, 4-6 times per week, is ideal and will ensure proper growth and health.  Provide a water bowl at all times and mist the cage daily.  Most day geckos will drink the droplets of water off the cage walls and vegetation.                           

Cleaning and Handling

     The terrarium should be cleaned as necessary. Any fecal matter or left over food should be cleaned out several times a week. The bedding should be completely changed once a month.  The inside of the terrarium can be cleaned out with an appropriate reptile cage cleaner, we recommend Natural Chemistry’s Healthy Habitat.  Tokay geckos are usually nervous captives and are extremely fast.  It’s best to handle them as little as possible and remember their tails break off.