Beginner's Guide To Leopard Gecko Supplies | Tank, Heater, Light, Substrate & More

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Check out my Interactive Leopard Gecko Care Guide eBook at leopardgeckomerch.com/

[@alliebenner3856]

i have a 50 gallon tank and im getting a baby leopard gecko would it be to big for a tiny baby

[@nightinggale6470]

@@alliebenner3856 nope! As long as there’s plenty of clutter and plant coverage, and not too much open space, they’ll do fine.

[@paityngacha0]

Your so right

[@zeller514]

Everything is great but 2 comments, you can’t use reptile carpets because it will just soak up all the poop and pee and I’m not sure about using a fish tank, but as I said I’m not sure

[@billyvillegas3847]

Do leopard geckos need heat at night? I have a 40 gallon tank which is enough space. I do turn off the lighting at night.

[@apss5736]

I can only imagine how many geckos have been given a better quality of life because of people watching your videos your channel is super underrated and is a wealth of knowledge please keep on doing these videos and thank you for helping thousands of gecko owners worldwide btw do you turn of your deep heat projectors at night

[@nightinggale6470]

You can leave them on 24/7, but if your gecko uses it during the day, I’d turn it off at night. A temperature drop is fine. I recommend looking into halogen flood bulbs, though, they’re actually more natural and beneficial than DHPs. The levels of IRA and IRB they produce more closely mimic the sun (DHPs produce barely any IRA, the most beneficial wavelength).

[@leopardgeckotalk]

aww thank you :D And yes I keep the DHP 24/7 but I use a dimming stat so I set it to 90oF :)

[@apss5736]

@@leopardgeckotalk thanks for the reply yeah i use a dimming stat

[@erikdahlstrom3561]

@@nightinggale6470 you are 100% right I wish I'd see more people saying this.

[@Ottermates]

Lol I watched this and spoiled mine even more 😂

[@wanderer4775]

I’ve been wanting a leopard gecko for probably 15 years at this point; I’m planning to finally take the plunge once I feel confident in husbandry so these videos really help!

[@znethan2462]

15 years😭😭😭😭do not get one if you still taking you that long

[@lugland]

did you get one?

[@tyslocum7488]

@@znethan2462 he could’ve had one live a full life with that time 😂

[@kaznosa]

This came out at the perfect time. I was having a really hard time finding a perfect list of supplies and different options available. I hope to get a leopard gecko in the near future so this will help so much :) thank you!

[@lopezfamily0911]

Same

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Aw perfect timing :D Good luck :D

[@MoinSpongii]

I'm currently fostering a malnourished leopardgecko, who was neglected in her previous home. She weighed only 19 grams and has parasites. But she is getting better. :)

[@GhostRMCF]

I wish you the best of luck. :)

[@baker4132]

Is she fully grown?

[@MoinSpongii]

@@baker4132 yes, we don't know the exact age, but she is fully grown.

[@MoinSpongii]

@@GhostRMCF thank you! I am optimistic that she will pull through because she is really a fighter despite everything she had to go through

[@baker4132]

@@MoinSpongii a fully grown leo being 19 grams… I don’t know how it’s alive but good luck with her

[@lillianmonet5952]

Also keep in mind that if you can't afford a side/front opening tank or already have an aquarium laying around, they sell conversion kits online for around 30 or $40! You can make it front opening that way. Handling will be a lot easier.

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Ah that's handy to know! :D

[@Pancake_Dragons]

My beardie's tank has a small opening at the top but I've managed. I'm not gonna waste a good tank lol. I'm not sure what gallon it is but it looks like a great size for a leopard gecko :)

[@StraycatRequiem]

​@@leopardgeckotalk hey im sure you havent experienced this thats why you recommended reptile carpet but one of my friends leo geckos got there claws ripped out and infected it died abit later

[@jhonsonthedongarzon872]

I just recently got my first gecko. Did months of research before getting him. Unfortunately I live in a part of Canada where there aren't many breeders and I didn't wanna ship one but I found a juvenile male from a local shop and I can't wait to take care of him.

[@abycase1209]

I lost my leopard gecko to old age recently (he was roughly between 17-20 years) and now due to get another gecko soon...I know a lots changed since I started with my boy and I've done lots of new research and thanks to your videos I have a bigger viv (will be upgrading to a 4ft at a later date) the deep heat projector lamp and shade dweller rather than the heat mat...and I have the dual control dimming thermostat (all top of the range) I've set my hides up a lot better now too...all thanks to your videos. Its always good to relearn things and change to new things too...so I hope to have my new baby soon

[@nightinggale6470]

That’s great to hear! I recommend looking into halogen flood bulbs, though, they’re actually more natural and beneficial than DHPs. The levels of IRA and IRB they produce more closely mimic the sun (DHPs produce barely any IRA, the most beneficial wavelength)

[@ClemmieLeopardGecko]

Thank you for making this so informative and comprehensive! I went to a reptile specialist shop, hoping for the same level of information and was literally handed an A5 paper with a ‘shopping list’ that didn’t explain or include some of these items. I’m a complete beginner and will be getting a fully grown adult in a few weeks, so finding the right heating has been quite overwhelming (and anxiety inducing, as I don’t want to cook or freeze her on accident). This made it much simpler! Thank you!!

[@jdiezel2322]

Your vids keep me entertained I have wanted a leopard gecko since 3rd grade and now I am in 8th and I am getting one this Saturday thank for helping me convince my mom

[@leopardgeckotalk]

aw awesome, congrats!! :D

[@sticky_note_yt]

are you me? I’m literally in the exact same situation!

[@michelleandrea7541]

The leopard gecko at my new job is never taken care of properly by anyone so I’m watching this video so I can take better care of it myself 🥺 he’s in my classroom. So far I cleaned his tank that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in so long!

[@lillianjones163]

I had someone recommended me to come your channel for advice on geckos and I'm glad cause I was getting confused cause all the mixed signals

[@daisyestrada3768]

Your videos have helped me so much! I recently got a leopard gecko and have been following all the instructions to make sure he's healthy

[@Max-hl1zt]

With regards to substrates I’ve recently moved my leo from tiles to Leo Life from ProRep. It looks like sand but when it drys out it begins to clump. Not only does this reduce the likelihood of impaction but it also mimics the arid natural environment of leopard geckos. Highly recommend it.

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Ah cool. I've seen it in shops before but I've never personally tried it, so I couldn't really confidently recommend it, just in case :')

[@Islesfan290]

Hi love the videos! Your videos have helped me convince my mom to let me get a leopard gecko! I got him yesterday he is a tangerine carrot tailed retired breeder and his name is Hugo, he is such a sweetie, thanks so much!!!!!!

[@evthepinappleg1252]

Carrot tails r my favorite breed 😍😍

[@leopardgeckotalk]

aww sweet, congrats!! :)

[@sporestcreature]

i absolutely love my gecko, she is currently my favorite thing right now and i just want the best for her thank you.

[@Audrey-el5yb]

Originally I wanted a bearded dragon but then stumbled across a video saying to not buy bearded dragons as a beginner and I did some research and was so shocked how a bearded dragon itself can cost 1000 dollars or higher. I started looking at leopard geckos and instantly fell in love they are sooo cute and such a great animal. Also great video!!! This really helped me to know what I need!!

[@Agg1E91]

I can second the vote for Hello Fresh. My wife and I are pretty busy and we found ourselves eating out too much. Too much cost, too many calories, mediocre food. We tried HF on a Free Week thing (3 meals) and loved it. We like some options better than others but really have never had one we just didn't like. If one of us sets it up it takes about 45 mins from getting the food out of the fridge to serving. If both of us work on it, its 25-30 mins total. We have used it for about 6 weeks. Living in central Texas I am impressed with how well the food is chilled. The only "downside" is the goop used as the cold packs. I kept the first few and just refroze them for other uses, but eventually there's just a lot of packaging which can build up.

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Aw that's great to hear! Yeah it definitely makes things easier and I end up trying things I probably wouldn't usually choose to cook cs they seem complex lol

[@Agg1E91]

@@leopardgeckotalk The nice thing is you get what you need for 2-4 people. No more. That is incredibly hard to do at regular grocery store. If you are putting together all the ingredients you end up having to buy way more than one or two meals’ worth. And if you try to vary it as much as with HF then, wow, lots bought and then just sitting around, or you make a family’s worth.

[@mpk6664]

Great timing. I was going to get a dart frog, but changed my mind to getting a leopard gecko. Luckily I already have a setup and just need a heatmat, food, a hide, and supplements

[@nightinggale6470]

Just letting you know: Heat mats are not a good heat source. A halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer/dimming thermostat is the most natural and beneficial option. They produce IRA and IRB like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively than heat mats. Whereas heat mats only produce IRC, which only heats the surface of their skin.

[@mpk6664]

@@nightinggale6470 I do have a basking platform that i'd just need to add a heat lamp over. Do you know how energy efficient halogens vs other options are?

[@nightinggale6470]

@@mpk6664 halogens in general aren’t super energy efficient unfortunately, but it depends on the bulb. Some are definitely more energy efficient than others. For example, bulbs that show two wattages, (eg 70w, 90w replacement). And they’ll be off at night, which will help save energy since they won’t be on 24/7 like some other heat sources are. Also, according to Roman Muryn (reptile heating and lighting expert), inefficient bulbs are better for reptiles because they produce more heat.

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Awesome :D

[@dookcurruff9047]

@@leopardgeckotalk girl hmu

[@fabledpigeon]

I’m getting two girl leos on Sunday- I was going to house them together with the equipment but thanks to your videos I’ve realised they should be apart and my mum has invested nearly £300 in the proper vivarium and equipment. So excited, I’d you want to see them I’ll post when they allow me to hold them and after they’ve got used to me- not sure how long that’s going to take, but thank you so much for the advice 💚 I hope they’re happy!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Aww that's great to hear! :D Good luck! :D

[@Siunloader]

Great guide set up my habitat yesterday he seems happy and is eating

[@paityngacha0]

Your channel gives me a lot of info i dont have a gecko yet but you've gave me a lot of Information!

[@Michael-yf1wo]

Thanks for this great resource! Off to get a 40gallon breeder today at petco's $1/gallon sale. There are fish tank conversion kits available for both horizontal and vertical orientations. I will get one of those as well. UVB does not penetrate glass, so I'll have to figure out an interior lighting mount.

[@Everettalla]

1$ per gallon sales are wonderful. They’re hard to catch though!

[@dwayneblenkinsopp1095]

take it to a glass cutter and cut to length of light then cover hole with mesh

[@erikdahlstrom3561]

I would not reccomend doing a verticle conversion on a 40 gallon. If the tank 1.5 by 3ft that is fine, you should not do a conversion.

[@Michael-yf1wo]

@@dwayneblenkinsopp1095 Great suggestion - thanks! I didn't think of that. There's a local glass shop that should be able to do it.

[@Michael-yf1wo]

@@erikdahlstrom3561 Thank you! I didn't get the 40g. Just too darn heavy and bulky. Seems like PVC is a better option at that point. I got the 29 gallon fish tank + vertical conversion kit.

[@Chloe-zc8zs]

I have a leopard gecko myself, and we add this sorta special moss for moisture, that I think you for got to add, a lot of people use it. Just a recommendation to add.

[@arcaninetyfour2239]

9:02 is food? Is food? Is food? OMNOMNOM

[@malbriggs1451]

This channel helped me so much! I’m trying to do as much research as possible for my new leopard gecko before I get it I’ve been looking stuff up and researching for about 3 weeks now I’m gonna continue even after I get it!

[@malbriggs1451]

Update :) he’s in a 55gl tank and he is doing great. His name is zeke

[@jenniferwolff9874]

I got my first leaped gecko and you help my mom think I new about them but I do so thanks a lot:]

[@JBitVlogs]

Literally JUST got all my supplies over the weekend and my leo yesterday. This video would've done wonders had it been uploaded a couple days earlier 😂

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Ah haha, that's a shame :')

[@articninja6342]

I'm going to get one next week, and I can't wait to meet him 😭❤️

[@BB-xu8dn]

I have a 130cm length by 60cm wide by 70cm height enclosure to house 2 leopard geckos. What type of lights do you suggest i use if my basking spot is about 40cm from the spot and uv lamp?

[@nightinggale6470]

A halogen flood bulb would be ideal for the primary heat source. Finding the best wattage may take some trial and error, I’d try 75w first and go from there. As for UVB, the Arcadia shadedweller would be good. Be very careful housing leopard geckos together. I have seen countless cases of them fighting and seriously injuring or killing each other, even after years of seemingly getting along. At least you’ve actually got a decent sized enclosure (many people unwisely attempt it in an enclosure that’s far too small), although fighting is still a risk.

[@thejoithh]

Getting my Leo soon after a long time of waiting, so excited!

[@Mar-ft9xu]

I’m getting mine in a few hours!

[@jupiterqmedia2120]

Hi! Couple of questions here, please no one be rude or anything. (Please answer in simplest form) (1) how do I gutload the insects? Also do I feed them all to the gecko while they’re alive? (2) do I keep the calcium bowl in as well as powdering the insects every other day? (3) does the LED need to be off at night and on during the day, and the heat mat and UVB on at all times? Thank you!

[@nightinggale6470]

1. Gutload the feeders by feeding them veggie scraps such as greens, potato, and carrot. Yes, the feeders must be live. 2. There’s no need for a calcium bowl, just dust on a schedule. 3. All lights must be off at night. Heat mats aren’t a good heat source. A halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer/dimming thermostat is the most natural and beneficial option, Arcadia’s deep heat projector is the second best option. They produce IRA and IRB like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively than heat mats. Whereas heat mats only produce IRC, which only heats the surface of their skin.

[@jupiterqmedia2120]

@@nightinggale6470 thank you! Can I find a halogen bulb on Amazon do you know?

[@nightinggale6470]

@@jupiterqmedia2120 yep!

[@dmhergott]

My son has an albino leopard gecko in a 20 gal long tank. Would the ShadeDweller 7% UVB work okay in that situation.

[@nightinggale6470]

I strongly recommend upgrading to a 40 gallon (36x18x18”) or larger if/when possible, especially if the gecko is an adult. Check secondhand sites for cheap used tanks. With a shadedweller over a mesh lid, the basking spot needs to be 8-13” away from the bulb. Make sure they have plenty of plant coverage and cryptic basking opportunities (cryptic basking is when they expose only part of their body, such as their tail or leg, while staying hidden). This is especially important for albinos.

[@dmhergott]

@@nightinggale6470 I guess my question is. We have a 20 gal long tank and that is what we are using. Making it 30x12x12. With the ShadeDweller is it ok to place it directly on the mesh lid?

[@nightinggale6470]

@@dmhergott yes, the basking spot just needs to be 8-13” away from the bulb. A 40 gallon would definitely be ideal if you’re able to get one.

[@junkoenoshima3390]

tysm for this video because i’m getting a leopard gecko in a few days so this was very helpful! - little leo lover

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Glad it was helpful! Good luck :D

[@DanielGonzalez-sp9xz]

Going to refer to this list for my future geckos mega habitat. I have a 40 gallon tank that used to house some angel fishes I cleaned it up, cleared it out and want to convert it to a home for a leopard gecko. Plenty of hiding and climbing spots. Perhaps I can house 2 in a tank that big??

[@nightinggale6470]

A 40 gallon is the recommended size for one and absolutely not big enough to safely house two together.

[@Quip_excessive]

Hey I haven’t been able to find where you can get earth mix arid. I’ve searched it many time on Amazon and google but have only found the calcium plus things

[@Angeangelina.G]

I’m still not sure I will get one. But I’m doing all the research so I know what to do. I came from tiktok after seeing that one woman who rehomed her son’s gecko who nobody took care of. How hard is it two watch a few videos and research everything they need?😭 thanks alot for your content.

[@VALERIAFERREROTORT-pp4cf]

hi! I have a question for the community, can I use a heat mat, a halogen bulb and the uvb she recommended In the video, because I don't know if those are ok. I would turn the heat mat on at night because where I live, the temperature is really low at night, but in the day I would use a halogen bulb and a uvb, is that ok?

[@VALERIAFERREROTORT-pp4cf]

with thermometers and thermostats ofc

[@BCS09]

@@VALERIAFERREROTORT-pp4cfasking the same question

[@jenjen0383]

I adopted a leopard gecko that hasa small case metabolic bone disease. she moves and still eats great!!! I just wanted to give her a happy, healthy home a wonderful life🎉🎉

[@lynxone9434]

I might get a leopard gecko as my first lizard. My mom wants one too so we would put together money so that we could get it a big tank and good quality equipment

[@brandonroman6739]

What type of scale do you recommend to weigh your leopard gecko

[@Sebibal1806]

Hi! now I am preparing a Terrarium for my first Geko. I prepare it inspired by your advice. I will use this 8 W T5 UV lamp. I have a question to which I found different answers on the internet. Should the lamp be turned off at night? that is... 12 hours on and 12 hours off?

[@nightinggale6470]

All lights must be turned off at night so as not to disrupt their day/night cycle.

[@Sebibal1806]

@@nightinggale6470 thnx a lot!

[@jameschutter1046]

Really helped me With the things I need for mine 👍

[@Chris-b4w8t]

I have used a heat pad for my gecko only but I’m considering switching to a deep heat projector

[@nightinggale6470]

I recommend switching to a halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat, they’re the most natural and beneficial heat source (even better than DHPs) :)

[@andreaholmes6362]

Hey! Great vid! Very helpful. I was just wondering where u got that one terrarium background with the little ledges? Anyways great vid bye!❤🦎❤🦎❤

[@MsLizzy2010]

Thank you for doing this. I have been watching you for a while and I have learned so much. I am adopting a one year old cause the owner is moving. I am using tile in mine cause I love the way it looks. I am using the heat lights cause that is what I can do. I am excited to get my first one!

[@nightinggale6470]

I strongly recommend switching to either full loose substrate or half tile half loose, digging/burrowing enrichment is very beneficial for them. A soil/playsand or soil/sand/clay mix is ideal.

[@MsLizzy2010]

@@nightinggale6470 I am getting her a dig box. I can’t do full due to allergies to dust and mold. Don’t worry she will have a enough enrichment

[@froggysgaming3391]

Thanks for this video and the links it was super helpful :)

[@leopardgeckotalk]

No problem :D

[@WorldFinds296]

Amazingly helpful video, the timestamps are super helpful as well

[@Yassim0911]

I want to get one of those backgrounds for both my leopard geckos but i don’t know where to buy one

[@Victoria-yc8bf]

i literally got a leopard gecko 4 days ago so this is so helpful

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Awesome :D :D

[@danielr.5232]

I have 5 reptiles and they are so cool to watch

[@tysenstolz2138]

Do the drawer breeder thing with the mealworms,crickets or locusts. Dose it get smelly?

[@mpk6664]

Mealworms, no. Crickets, YES.

[@annnnn1347]

Thank goodness I found this video. Exactly what I've been looking for.

[@drewgroff8387]

Can you have a heating pad and heating light or just one?

[@nightinggale6470]

A heat mat isn’t necessary, all you need is a lamp connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat.

[@geckoeditz5330]

even though I had my Leo for almost 4 years, I still watch these lol!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Thank you :D

[@abycase1209]

Yes things change so much and I learned I was doing most things wrong eith my old boy...who got yo 17-20 years of age...now I'm going to do everything differently with the new gecko - I'm not one of these that thinks I got my gecko to 17-20 years of age so I must have been doing it right...I want to learn and grow too...although I'm going to be in my 60's if this baby goes as long as my old boy did...

[@sush.1799]

hi, do you have any suggestions on where I should buy my leopard gecko?

[@angelinafonseca3415]

Should I get a heat pad AND a heat bulb, or is that too much?

[@nightinggale6470]

No need for a heat mat, all you need is a heat lamp :)

[@jonielsantiago1632]

Thank you so much i am getting one this weekend probably hope he'll be happy. 😊

[@DnG34]

Should I use heat mat and possibly a ceramic heater also?

[@mpk6664]

I would go one or the other depending on what the gecko likes the most. Having both can make it too warm for them.

[@nightinggale6470]

Neither of those are good as a primary heat source. A halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer/dimming thermostat is the most natural and beneficial option, Arcadia’s deep heat projector is the second best option. They produce IRA and IRB like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively than heat mats and CHEs. Whereas heat mats and CHEs only produce IRC, which only heats the surface of their skin.

[@ohagens]

Wow. That was excellent. Thanks so much!!

[@TjDjTosh]

Wait so if I want to put the deep heat projector in the vivarium what additional parts do I need?

[@nightinggale6470]

I’m not very familiar with how to do mount a bulb inside an enclosure because I’ve never done it. I do know you need a guard/cage for the bulb, though. I recommend using a halogen flood bulb, they’re more natural and beneficial than DHPs; the levels of infrared A and B they produce more closely mimic the sun (DHPs produce barely any IRA, the most beneficial wavelength).

[@goose900]

I love your videos I’m subscribed and have my notifications on. Thank you for your help. But I ah e a question if I’m going to get a 7% uvb light do I still need a heated lamp? And if I get a. Heated mat do I need a heated lmao.

[@garlicbread7542]

You said that they eat live insects like crickets and mealworms but the closest pet shop near me (pets at home) only sells crickets is that a good enough diet or do you think I need to find another place that sells other insects

[@nightinggale6470]

Crickets are a healthy staple diet, although a varied diet is best. You can order them online as well. Live crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae can be fed regularly. Mealworms and super worms/morio worms can be fed occasionally. The more variety in their diet, the better!

[@Acraw69]

i didn't know you where part of the people who support heat mats and reptile carpet its not good for them but everything else is good info

[@dongdungding]

THANKYOUSOMUCH!!! I needed to make a list for christmas for my leopard gecko!!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

No problem :D :D

[@everythingsamazing5181]

Hi there! I’m planning on getting a leopard gecko soon, my friend gave me a terrarium for my birthday today! (Well it’s tomorrow) and I was wondering a few things, it’s my first time getting a gecko so I’m a bit nervous! Ok here I go: do I need a light for the gecko? Is it ok that my terrarium has 2 floors? I got big rocks and pebbles for decor. Can I use pebbles as the floor? If so what do I use for the floor? What’s their diet? Ok that’s all, thanks so much, new sub!

[@nightinggale6470]

Yes, they need lighting to thrive. A halogen flood bulb is the most natural and beneficial primary heat source, and they benefit from a tube UVB bulb (such as the Arcadia shadedweller) as well. Pebbles aren’t the best substrate. New reptiles should be quarantined on paper towel (ideally for three months) to monitor their health. After, a soil/sand or soil/sand/clay mix is ideal. Their diet is a variety of live insects. Crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae can be fed regularly. Mealworms, super worms, and hornworms can be fed occasionally. The more variety in their diet, the better. Dust with calcium and multivitamins on a schedule. What’re the dimensions of the terrarium?

[@jjblank]

Quick question, I have a diy humid hide which I made out of Tupperware and I was wondering if a store bought one was worth the money

[@nightinggale6470]

As long as their hide is opaque (not see through) so they can actually hide in it, and the edges of the hole aren’t sharp, Tupperware works fine. Store bought ones are just more aesthetically pleasing.

[@MajaLarsen9534]

I have a question: I don’t feel comfortable having a bio active tank but I’d love to have real plants in my geckos tank.. does it HAVE to be bio active for that to happen or is it okay without?

[@nightinggale6470]

The enclosure doesn’t have to be bioactive to have plants. You just need soil and LED lighting. How come you’re not comfortable having a bioactive tank?

[@MajaLarsen9534]

@@nightinggale6470 I just feel like it would be a whole lot of work that I just don’t feel comfortable putting on my shoulders just yet since I’ve only had my gecko for about a year also thank you for the reply !

[@dearjudii]

I’m so thankful for all your information. Your videos have helped me so much and my Leopard Gecko is so happy ❤️. I made a custom 20g for him but hoping to move him to a 40g when I get more space. Keep up the great work ☺️!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Thank you :D Aw that's great to hear!

[@madamicequeen]

I'm not using UVB would Zoo Med Reptivite, without Vitamin D3 and Fluker's Calcium Reptile Supplement with added Vitamin D3 both be needed or would I just need the flukers calcium? I currently have been using flukers calcium without d3 and flukers liquid vitamin which i believe has d3 in it.

[@nightinggale6470]

Use either just reptivite (it contains enough calcium to be considered an all in one) or both reptivite and calcium. I strongly recommend providing UVB, it’s very beneficial for them. When using UVB use supplements without d3, otherwise one supplement needs d3.

[@tomwalker3111]

if i use use Eco earth do i have to anything persific to it / with it ?

[@ghostratsarah]

Not really, just make sure you feed them on a clean flat surface, don't let them hunt on any kind of loose substrate- to avoid impaction. Also follow the instructions on how to set it up. (Anyone correct me if I'm wrong)

[@tomwalker3111]

@@ghostratsarah thank you !

[@nightinggale6470]

Eco earth is not a good substrate. It’s unnatural, dusty, and hard on their joints. A soil/playsand mix(or soil/sand/clay mix) is ideal. There are some good pre-made mixes as well.

[@nightinggale6470]

@@ghostratsarah impaction is caused by improper husbandry, not loose substrate. As long as their husbandry is correct (basking spot of 92-95, overhead heating, etc.) they’ll pass it no problem. As long as it’s the right kind of substrate, feeding on the substrate is perfectly fine.

[@ghostratsarah]

@@nightinggale6470 thank you for that information! That helps squash a lot of my anxiety haha

[@jadedixon646]

What do you think of the setups they do on internet reptile for leopard geckos ?

[@Idkitsadeletedchannel]

I’m planning to get a gecko in the near future so this video is so helpful! However I have one question for you. So I’m not planning to use a light because my room has adequate day/night cycle. For vitamins, should I buy calcium with d3 or multivitamin with d3. Should I get both with d3 or one with and one without?

[@nightinggale6470]

I strongly recommend using both a halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat and a tube UVB bulb, they’re both extremely beneficial. Halogens produce infrared A and infrared B like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively. If you insist on not using UVB, one supplement needs d3, doesn’t matter which one it is. Just don’t leave any in the enclosure.

[@gingerpike4115]

I’m getting a leopard gecko and it’s a baby . Is it alright I put it in a 40 gallon tank.Your videos help me a lot too thanks for making them!!:)

[@nightinggale6470]

Absolutely! As long as there’s enough clutter and plant coverage they’ll do great :)

[@thejoithh]

My leopard gecko is on vitamin and mineral supplements as well as calcium with d3. Should I change them?

[@nightinggale6470]

I recommend getting a tube UVB bulb (they’re very beneficial), and if you got one you’d need supplements without d3, but otherwise your supplements should be fine

[@simpingforleovaldesroadto5191]

Hi I really need to know how many gallons is 115cm

[@nightinggale6470]

To convert to gallons you need to know all three dimensions of the enclosure, not just one.

[@R_candy]

Oh my god I needed this video!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Perfect! :)

[@novablaze.9054]

My gecko is very blind so my tank for him is a big 17 gallons. I would like to give him a bigger tank, but I worry that he would struggle because of his eye sight. What do you think?

[@nightinggale6470]

I would still upgrade to a larger enclosure, 40 gallons or larger is recommended. Just monitor him and be mindful of how you setup the enclosure (see what works and what doesn’t).

[@novablaze.9054]

@@nightinggale6470 okay, I will

[@goose900]

I love your videos I’m subscribed and have my notifications on. Thank you for your help. But I have question if I’m going to get a 7% uvb light do I still need a heated lamp? And if I get a. Heated mat do I need a heated lamp? So which ones do I need? UVB light, heated lamp, or headed mat?? Thanks

[@nightinggale6470]

Heat mats aren’t a good heat source. Get a heat lamp and tube UVB bulb. A halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat is good for heat, you can get the bulbs at hardware stores. Arcadia’s shadedweller is best for UVB.

[@goose900]

@@nightinggale6470 thank you

[@morcs74]

do you do the arcadia video voice overs as well? thought you sounded familiar :-)

[@addison6613]

Another super helpful video!! Thank you, your amazing!

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Thank you :D

[@chrisbaldwin2954]

Hi, love your informative vlogs. We've had our Leo for 4 weeks, we've tried to do loads of research before we bought her, I seem to find conflicting info on whether a heatlamp should be on 24 hours or just 12. Could you give me your insight please.

[@nightinggale6470]

The lamp should be on during the day (14 hours/day in the summer, 12 hours/day in the winter), off at night. Any lights at night disrupt their day/night cycle.

[@tablerock]

I love your channel!! 🤩

[@callen1622]

I use the Arcadia deep heat projector for my leopard gecko (Gordo) What brands and what kinds of food suplements should I dust it's food with to keep it healthy ? I was going to use the Zoo Med reptile calcium with vitamin d3 and the Exo Terra multi vitamin powder. Is that good? If not what should I use instead?

[@callen1622]

(I also use a Zoo Med 16 watt heat pad on the cool side of his cadge)

[@nightinggale6470]

I recommend switching to a halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat, they’re actually more natural and beneficial than DHPs! The levels of infrared A and B they produce more closely mimic the sun (DHPs produce barely any IRA, the most beneficial wavelength). Those supplements would be good. You could use zoo med’s multivitamins. I recommend providing UVB such as Arcadia’s shadedweller, it’s very beneficial for them. When using UVB you need supplements without d3. The heat mat isn’t necessary

[@danieltaylor4185]

I might also recommend water treatment, especially if you live in an urban area. Water is often treated with chlorine and chloromine. Chlorine can cause eye and nose irritation as it evaporates out of the water, and no one is really sure if chloramine can hurt your reptile or not, but it is stable in water and does not evaporate. I filter my gecko's water, and treat it, which is probably overkill, but I do it just to be on the safe side.

[@clutchcargo666]

I use bottled water, in a pinch I let water set out overnight.

[@xij3505]

I buy jugs of water. Less than 1$ a piece. It’s better for them and also us better for my mistking for my crestie

[@ghostratsarah]

I use a really high power water filter, the highest non-reveseosmosis one on the market. Usually my water doesn't have any chlorine, but sometimes the plant will just dump a ton in and it will reek so bad and I can't even bathe. We also have pretty high levels of metals. No mercury or lead, but enough copper and other things that I worry.

[@clutchcargo666]

@@xij3505 most grocery stores have a water vending machine out front. Bring empty jug and fill for .25 cents

[@nightinggale6470]

Tap water is generally safe, depending on the region. Minimal amounts of chlorine won’t harm the reptile (and evaporate anyway). Spring water is good as well. Just avoid distilled water, it lacks important minerals.

[@muffin0101]

does hello fresh work for Canada???🤔

[@lynchjmb]

Hi I can tell it’s going to be a great vid so great video

[@xxstarbrite02xx30]

can you do one for cresties?

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Sure :) I did one years ago, but I'm sure I can do an updated one. :)

[@vincentkurniawan9217]

Do you recommend exoterra multivitamin and exoterra calcium with d3?

[@tylerpickering1850]

Hey can you help me I want to get one but my parents might say no but if they say yes how much will it cost

[@lexiplaz6639]

very helpful, thank you!

[@marciacoco9549]

Love this video lots of great information !! Thanks 😊

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Thank you :D

[@3xtrathin674]

Hi I have a question about my leopard gecko. She opens and closes her mouth repeatedly like making a smacking noise, is there anything I can do? I don’t really have a vet in the area

[@mia524]

My tank has a solid wood roof. What heat lamp could I use for it? I was thinking clamp but there is nothing for it to attach too. Only a enterance for a cable

[@nightinggale6470]

There are ways to attach overhead heating/lighting in wooden and PVC enclosures. I personally don’t know how because I’ve never used those enclosures, although if you look it up you should be able to find guides or people that will help you

[@katastrofygames]

Your videos are always so helpful. Do you think you can make a video on what to NOT feed feeder insects? I’ve been keeping my mealworms in oatmeal but some sources say that is unhealthy for Leos

[@nightinggale6470]

Yeah, oats contain phytic acid, which binds calcium.

[@mpk6664]

Keeping the worms on oats is fine as long as you feed them a vegetable or two a couple hours before feeding the worms to your gecko

[@katastrofygames]

@@nightinggale6470 that’s what I read

[@katastrofygames]

@@mpk6664 also what I’ve heard. What veggies would be bad for the feeders to eat? I heard orange is bad cus it is too acidic for Leo’s? Anything else?

[@mpk6664]

@@katastrofygames I'm interested in that too, actually.

[@dwayneblenkinsopp1095]

i have just got my 3ed little guy or girl a blazing blizzard tangerine thanks to my local breeder she is amazing good to have a breeder that rings you every week to see how thing are going ☺☺

[@leopardgeckotalk]

Oh thats good of the breeder, sounds like a good one :D

[@Dailypumpwithjen]

Do I need a heat mat, and either the ceramic heater or deep heat projector? Or all three?

[@nightinggale6470]

A halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer/dimming thermostat is the most natural and beneficial option, Arcadia’s deep heat projector is the second best option. They produce infrared A and B like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively than heat mats. Whereas heat mats only produce IRC, which only heats the surface of their skin.

[@kcizere1992]

Have you ever had a gecko not poo so much but still eating normal, heat mat is fine so is the temperature in the tank.. vet has told me to get her laxative drop once a day. But why is she constipated?? My geckos 18 months old

[@nightinggale6470]

Constipation happens due to husbandry issues. What’s the hot spot temperature and how is it being measured (analog thermometer, digital, or temperature gun)? Heat mats are not a good heat source. A PAR38 halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer/dimming thermostat is the most natural and beneficial option. They produce IRA and IRB like the sun, heat that penetrates deep into the skin tissue and heats them far more effectively than heat mats. Whereas heat mats only produce IRC, which only heats the surface of their skin. Also, what are you feeding her?

[@kcizere1992]

@@nightinggale6470 thanks for your response first of all its all digital i use hence best from what I've researched.. hot spot with a bulb is set to around 32 33°c during the day connection with repti temp digital thermo. The heat mat has been fine for her up until few weeks ago, she is 18months old so might be her changing or adapting to the winter? The vet has told me to give her some laxative to help the bowel she's defecating but once this after i gave her a laxative the first time this week

[@kcizere1992]

@@nightinggale6470 we feed her locusts as her main meal with calcium and vitamins

[@nightinggale6470]

@@kcizere1992 ok, I’d bump the basking spot up to 33-34, measured by a temperature gun. I’d also switch from the heat mat to a PAR38 halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat during the day.

[@kcizere1992]

@@nightinggale6470 what makes you think the heatmat is the issue??

[@kylaxoky7287]

In the supplements part where you mentioned RevitaliseD3, if I have a UV light (shadedweller & DHP) is D3 something to avoid to prevent over supplementing or should I still provide a supplement that includes it?

[@chuckmontgomery7571]

Over supplementation of D3 is a thing, but not one to worry too terribly much about. Reduce your use of D3 supplements by about half or more and you should do fine.

[@dadsgirl99pr]

My vet said to reduce the calcium witj D3 to every other feeding (I have a baby who feeds every day). D3 toxicity can be avoided like that.

[@ghostratsarah]

Provide them with a dish of plain calcium, they will lick from it when they need to. They seem to know how much they need and when. And supplement with a d3 enriched calcium dust every other feeding.

[@kylaxoky7287]

@@dadsgirl99pr thanks!

[@nightinggale6470]

If your UVB is setup properly, and the gecko is using it, there’s no need to supplement with any d3. Just dust with calcium every other feeding and vitamins every three feedings. Also, you may want to consider switching to a halogen flood bulb connected to a dimmer or dimming thermostat, they’re actually more natural and beneficial than DHPs (the levels of IRA and IRB they produce more closely mimic the sun). DHPs produce barely any IRA, the most beneficial wavelength.

[@vampirecrabs1081]

Can i feed leopard gecko can insects or leopard gecko pellets?? Also can i only feed my leopard gecko mealworms?

[@nightinggale6470]

No to both questions. Both canned insects and pellets have next to no nutritional value, and most geckos refuse them. They need live, dusted, gutloaded insects. Mealworms are fatty and not very nutritious, they’re not a healthy staple. Live crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae can be fed regularly. Mealworms, super worms, and hornworms can be fed occasionally. The more variety in their diet, the better.