Geckos are fascinating creatures with diverse diets and water intake habits depending on their species and environment. Understanding their dietary needs is crucial for anyone keeping geckos as pets, or simply appreciating these little lizards in their natural habitat. This comprehensive guide will delve into what geckos eat and drink, addressing common questions surrounding their feeding habits.
What Do Geckos Eat?
The diet of a gecko is primarily insectivorous, meaning they largely feed on insects. However, the specific types of insects vary greatly depending on the gecko species and its size. Some common food sources include:
- Crickets: These are a staple food for many gecko species, providing essential protein and nutrients. Varying sizes of crickets are crucial to match the gecko's size to prevent injury or choking.
- Mealworms: These beetle larvae are another popular choice, offering a good source of fat and protein. However, they should be fed sparingly due to their high fat content.
- Roaches (Dubia, Turkistan): These are increasingly popular feeder insects due to their ease of breeding, nutritional value, and lack of climbing ability, which helps prevent escapes.
- Waxworms: While nutritious, waxworms should be offered only occasionally as a treat due to their high fat content. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems.
- Fruit Flies (Drosophila): These tiny flies are perfect for feeding smaller gecko species or hatchlings.
- Other Insects: Depending on the species, geckos might also consume spiders, grasshoppers, moths, and other insects found in their natural environment.
What Size Insects Should I Feed My Gecko?
The size of the insect should never be larger than the space between your gecko's eyes. Feeding larger insects poses a choking hazard and can cause injury.
What Do Geckos Drink?
While many assume geckos drink from puddles or water bowls, their primary source of hydration is actually from the insects they consume. Insects contain moisture, providing a significant portion of their daily water intake.
However, providing a water source is still essential, particularly in dry environments.
How Do I Provide Water to My Gecko?
Several methods are effective for providing water to geckos:
- Shallow Water Dish: A shallow dish is preferable to prevent drowning, especially for smaller species. Keep the water fresh and clean.
- Misting: Regularly misting the enclosure can provide water droplets your gecko can lap up. This is especially important for species that prefer higher humidity levels.
- Leafy Greens: Some geckos will consume moisture from leafy greens such as collard greens or kale.
What Do Leopard Geckos Eat and Drink?
Leopard geckos are a popular pet choice, and their diet is relatively straightforward. They primarily feed on crickets, mealworms, and occasionally other insects like waxworms (as treats). Providing a shallow water dish is important, although they primarily get their hydration from their prey.
What Do Crested Geckos Eat and Drink?
Crested geckos are unique in that they can thrive on commercially available crested gecko diets. These formulated diets typically provide all the necessary nutrients and moisture. However, offering insects occasionally can still be beneficial. A shallow water dish is also recommended.
Do Geckos Need Supplements?
Yes, it's crucial to dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD). The frequency of dusting depends on the gecko species and its age. Consult with a reptile veterinarian for species-specific advice.
Can Geckos Eat Fruits and Vegetables?
While some geckos might nibble on fruits or vegetables, they are not a significant part of their diet and should not be considered a staple food.
By understanding the specific dietary requirements of your gecko species and ensuring access to clean water, you can help them thrive and enjoy a long, healthy life. Remember to always consult with a veterinarian specializing in reptiles for advice tailored to your specific gecko.
