Guest Author - Denise Lacazette

I have always been partial to companion animals that interact with their humans versus being a curiosity tucked away in a tank or cage. There is something awe-inspiring and just plain “cool” about having a lizard creeping up your hand and arm and simply hanging out (assuming you are not in the tropics or desert and like having animals attached to you, that is). The African Fat-Tailed Gecko, with the right human companion, will do just that.

The African Fat-Tailed Gecko is just a bit longer than an anole ending up between 8-10 inches long compared to the anole’s 7 inches, but the gecko is much thicker throughout the tail and body. The tail of the gecko is, however, as fragile as the anole’s so always exercise caution when handling. The natural coloration of the African fat-tailed gecko is brown and tan striped. Breeders have been working on color variations, but they are not common and can be quite expensive.

African Fat-Tailed Geckos are nocturnal reptiles so they require some specialized care. Their habitat should have adequate space to move around in, hiding places, temperature variance (within the habitat), regulated lighting, and humidity. Substrate materials may be ingested so take care when choosing the type. The African Fat-Tailed Gecko is not a climber (with sticky pads) so cage covering is not a requirement (unless you have animals or small children that might be a little too interested in what is inside). You should not keep multiple males in one cage, but you can house as many females (with 1 male if desired) as space allows. The African fat-tailed gecko is not really social; the females are simply non-territorial or non-aggressive.

Care basics:

Food – live insects (store bought) such as mealworms, crickets, waxworms, pink mice. All food types and sizes are dependent upon age and/or breeding status. Vitamin and calcium supplements are typically added. A water bowl should always be available, but the gecko is more likely to get its water from condensation or misting moisture.

Temperature – 70-90 degrees (remember the habitat should have variances such as a cool end and high end for temps).

Humidity – high (this is especially important for shedding and preventing illness).

Lighting – 10-12 hours of lighting per day, red light at night (to observe). Full spectrum not required, but best for natural daytime habitat simulation. Although these geckos are nocturnal they still require the equivalent day and night cycle of lighting.

The average lifespan of the African Fat-Tailed Gecko is about fifteen years in captivity. Before investing in any exotic pet please do your homework and ensure it is a decision you and the animal will be happy with. Please remember that non-native species (and even native) should never be released into the wild. Pet releases usually result in death to the animal; if by some chance they survive, the non-native species can seriously damage the ecosystem.