Leopard Gecko Lifespan - What to Expect

To start, it's important to provide the gecko with the appropriate tank size and temperature to keep it stress-free and healthy. The optimal temperature range for leopards is between 29-31 degrees Celsius during the day and 22-25 degrees Celsius during the night. They do not require UV light as they are nocturnal, but a 40-60 watt bulb or an infrared bulb can be placed at one end of the tank to provide heat and light. Hide boxes with different temperatures can also be placed inside the tank to help the gecko regulate its body temperature and shed its skin properly.

Proper feeding is also crucial in prolonging the leopard gecko's lifespan. As insectivores, they should be fed with small mealworms and crickets when they are young and gradually introduced to other insects such as small cockroaches, fruit flies, and gut-loaded crickets as adults. It's also important to let the gecko consume its shed skin, which is rich in nutrients.

By properly caring for a leopard gecko, it can live up to its maximum lifespan. While leopards can live up to 10-20 years in the wild, those in captivity usually have a lifespan of 8-10 years. However, with proper care and feeding, this can be extended to 10-15 years, and in rare cases, up to 20 years.

Ultimately, the lifespan of a leopard gecko depends on the keeper's dedication to providing the gecko with the necessary care and attention it needs. A healthy and vigorous gecko requires conscientious effort and attention from its keeper.