Peacock Day Geckos

Peacock Day Gecko (Phelsuma quadriocellata)

Overview

The Peacock Day Gecko (Phelsuma quadriocellata) is a small, brightly colored gecko native to Madagascar. Known for their stunning green, blue, and red markings, these day-active geckos are admired for their beauty and unique characteristics. Peacock Day Geckos are one of the smaller day gecko species, making them a manageable and attractive choice for hobbyists who want an eye-catching display gecko without the larger size of other day geckos. Due to their delicate skin and fast movements, they are best suited for display rather than handling.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Peacock Day Geckos are a smaller species, typically reaching 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live 6-10 years in captivity.
• Appearance: These geckos display vibrant green coloring with striking blue spots and red or orange accents along their bodies, particularly around the head and tail. They have two pairs of distinctive black eye spots (“ocelli”) on their neck, which gives them their “peacock” name and aids in warding off predators.
• Distinctive Features: Their vibrant colors, small size, and unique markings make them one of the most visually appealing geckos. They also have toe pads that allow them to climb smooth surfaces, which adds to their agility and makes them enjoyable to observe.

Housing

• Enclosure: A vertical enclosure is ideal for Peacock Day Geckos, as they are arboreal and prefer to climb. A 12x12x18-inch (30x30x45 cm) tank is sufficient for one gecko, although larger setups allow for more enrichment. Glass enclosures are preferred, as they offer stability and visibility, which enhances their display appeal.
• Substrate: Use a moisture-retaining substrate such as a mix of coconut fiber and orchid bark, which helps maintain humidity while providing a naturalistic feel. Adding leaf litter can also enhance the appearance and provide hiding spots.
• Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a daytime temperature of 80-85°F (27-29°C) with a basking spot around 90°F (32°C). Night temperatures can drop to 70-75°F (21-24°C). Humidity should be kept between 60-80%, which can be achieved with daily misting and proper ventilation.
• Lighting: As diurnal lizards, Peacock Day Geckos need both UVB and daylight lighting to support their health and metabolism. Provide a low-level UVB bulb (5-6%) along with a 12-hour day/night light cycle.

Décor and Enrichment

• Climbing Structures: Include branches, bamboo, and vines to encourage climbing and exploration. Plants like pothos, bromeliads, or artificial foliage create hiding spots and mimic their natural habitat.
• Hides and Humid Areas: Peacock Day Geckos need hiding places at various levels within the enclosure. Additionally, provide a humid hide by placing damp moss in an enclosed area to help with shedding and hydration.

Feeding

• Diet: In captivity, Peacock Day Geckos thrive on a varied diet of live insects and commercially available gecko diets. Offer small crickets, fruit flies, or dubia roaches, along with gecko diet powder that can be mixed into a paste. Their diet can also include mashed fruits like papaya and mango as an occasional treat.
• Feeding Frequency: Juvenile geckos should be fed daily, while adults can be fed 3-4 times a week.
• Supplements: Dust live insects with calcium and vitamin D3 powder two to three times a week to support bone health, especially if the UVB exposure is limited.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Peacock Day Geckos have sensitive, delicate skin that can tear easily and are quick-moving, making them unsuitable for frequent handling. They are best observed as display animals, as handling can cause them stress and injury. Instead, enjoy watching their active and inquisitive behavior as they explore their environment.
• Temperament: These geckos are generally shy and may hide if they feel exposed. With time, they may become more comfortable with their keeper's presence and often become bold enough to feed in front of observers. They can also be kept in pairs if the enclosure is large enough, although two males should never be housed together, as they may become territorial.

Health and Maintenance

• Shedding: Peacock Day Geckos shed their skin regularly, and humidity levels are crucial to ensure they shed smoothly. Inadequate humidity can lead to stuck shed, particularly around their toes, which may require gentle intervention.
• Common Health Issues: Like other small reptiles, they are prone to metabolic bone disease if they lack adequate calcium or UVB. Additionally, low humidity can cause shedding problems, while poor ventilation can lead to respiratory infections. Regular observation and maintaining enclosure parameters help in early detection and prevention.

Breeding

• Breeding Season: Peacock Day Geckos are seasonal breeders, typically mating in the spring and summer. Females lay pairs of small, hard-shelled eggs approximately every 3-4 weeks when in season.
• Egg Incubation: Eggs can be removed for incubation or left in the enclosure if the conditions are stable. At temperatures around 80°F (27°C), eggs typically hatch within 60-90 days.

Conclusion

The Peacock Day Gecko (Phelsuma quadriocellata) is an ideal choice for those who want a vibrant, display-oriented reptile that brings color and activity to an enclosure. Although they require specific conditions and aren’t suitable for frequent handling, their bold coloration and lively nature make them a rewarding pet for intermediate hobbyists. With a naturalistic, well-maintained setup and a diet rich in variety, Peacock Day Geckos can thrive in captivity, offering years of enjoyment and fascination.