Northern spiny-tailed Gecko

Species Background

 Licence Category - Category 2

Lifespan - Up to 10 years of age

Vivarium

Northern Spiny-tail Geckos are an arboreal species that have a very good climbing ability. Therefore vivariums should be designed to provide climbing space as well as suitable ground area while they forage for food at night. An indoor enclosure measuring a minimum of 45cms long, 45cms wide and 60cm high is appropriate for two to four adults.

Lighting and Heating

In the wild Northern Spiny-tail Geckos sit on branches within shrubs and small trees where they bask and receive exposure to sunlight during the day. UV lighting in combination with a heat light is therefore strongly recommended. A heat light and UV globe or tube should be positioned at one side of the enclosure whereby the geckos can access adequate amounts of UV-B. A thermal gradient should be maintained within the vivarium to achieve a hot spot of 35°C to 25 °C in the cool end, during daytime hours.

Furnishing

Multi-stemmed branches can be positioned beneath the heat light and UV globe so that geckos can access heating and UV lighting. A water bowl should be placed in the cool end of the enclosure on top of a sand or bark substrate.

Food (In Captivity)

Northern Spiny-tailed Geckos are insectivores, feeding primarily on crickets and wood roaches in captivity. Insects should be dusted with calcium and multi-vitamin supplements so that their diet is balanced.

Essentials

  • Vivarium
  • Heat globe
  • UV globe/tube
  • Thermometer
  • Thermostat
  • Substrate
  • Water bowl
  • Branches
  • Vitamin and calcium supplements

Please note the information provided above is a species background, NOT A CARE SHEET. We recommend adequate background reading and research to be undertaken prior to purchasing this species. See recommended books below.

Recommended Books

For further information please visit one of our stores to speak with a representative in the reptile and amphibian department.