Tokay Geckos

Overview

The Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is one of the most well-known and striking gecko species in the pet trade, native to Southeast Asia and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Known for their vibrant colors and distinctive call that sounds like "to-kay, to-kay," these geckos make an unforgettable addition to any reptile collection. While they are known for being more temperamental than some other gecko species, their bold personality and striking appearance make them a favorite among experienced reptile keepers.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Tokay Geckos are medium to large-sized geckos, typically ranging from 10 to 14 inches (25-35 cm) in length. Some individuals may reach lengths up to 16 inches (40 cm).
• Lifespan: In captivity, Tokay Geckos can live 10-15 years with proper care, although some individuals may live even longer.
• Appearance: Tokay Geckos are famous for their stunning, colorful skin. They typically have a gray or blue-gray body with bright orange or turquoise spots across their back, giving them a beautiful and eye-catching appearance. Their rough, textured skin adds to their unique look, and their large, bulging eyes are also a striking feature.
• Distinctive Features: Tokay Geckos have a robust, muscular build, and are known for their strong, adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb almost any surface. Their large, powerful jaws and long, muscular tail are also distinctive characteristics.

Housing

• Enclosure: Tokay Geckos require a vertical enclosure to accommodate their climbing abilities. A 20-gallon tall terrarium is the minimum for one adult, though a 30-gallon enclosure is preferred for additional space. It’s essential to provide plenty of climbing surfaces, such as branches, vines, and rocks, as they are arboreal (tree-dwelling) by nature. Ensure that the terrarium has a secure lid, as Tokay Geckos are skilled escape artists.
• Substrate: Use a substrate that retains moisture and provides a naturalistic environment, such as coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or a mix of sphagnum moss and peat moss. This helps maintain humidity levels and gives the gecko the opportunity to burrow or hide. Avoid using loose substrates like sand, which can be ingested by the gecko and cause digestive issues.
• Temperature: Tokay Geckos require a warm environment with a temperature range of 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day. A basking spot should reach 90-95°F (32-35°C) to provide a warm zone for the gecko to regulate its body temperature. At night, temperatures can drop to around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
• Humidity: Tokay Geckos thrive in high humidity environments, with levels of 60-80%. Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity and provide proper ventilation to prevent mold or fungal growth. Mist the enclosure daily, especially in the morning and evening, to maintain humidity levels and give the gecko the moisture it needs to shed properly.
• Lighting: While Tokay Geckos are nocturnal and do not require bright lighting, they do benefit from a light cycle to regulate their circadian rhythm. A low-wattage UVB bulb can be provided to help with calcium absorption and overall health, but it is not strictly necessary. Providing a consistent day-night cycle with 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness is ideal.

Feeding

• Diet: Tokay Geckos are insectivores and will eat a wide variety of live insects, including crickets, roaches, mealworms, superworms, and other appropriately sized bugs. They may also enjoy smaller vertebrates like pinkie mice on occasion.
• Feeding Frequency: Juvenile Tokay Geckos should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day or 3-4 times per week, depending on their size and activity level. Always offer food that is appropriately sized for the gecko, as large prey can cause stress or injury.
• Supplements: As insectivores, Tokay Geckos require proper calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation to prevent metabolic bone disease. Dust their food with a calcium supplement 3-4 times per week and a multivitamin supplement once a week. If you are feeding pinkie mice or larger prey, consider dusting those with calcium as well.
• Water Source: Provide a shallow water dish in the enclosure, and ensure it is changed regularly to keep it clean. Tokay Geckos will also drink from droplets on leaves and surfaces, so light misting in the morning and evening can help meet their hydration needs.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Tokay Geckos are known for their bold and territorial behavior. While they are generally not aggressive toward their keeper, they can be skittish and may bite if they feel threatened or cornered. Tokay Geckos are best suited for experienced reptile keepers who are familiar with their temperament. If you do need to handle them, it’s important to do so with care and respect. Use two hands to gently support their body, and avoid grabbing or restraining them forcefully.
• Temperament: Tokay Geckos are naturally shy and reclusive but can be quite defensive if startled. They are known to vocalize loudly (making a "tokay" sound) when they feel threatened, which is where they get their name. While they can be aggressive, they are also quite curious and may become more accustomed to their keeper over time. However, they should never be handled too frequently, as this can cause stress.
• Behavior: Tokay Geckos are nocturnal and most active at night, when they hunt for food and explore their environment. During the day, they tend to hide in crevices or in the highest parts of the enclosure, where they feel safe. They are excellent climbers, using their sticky toe pads to scale smooth surfaces, and can often be seen resting in elevated hiding spots.

Molting and Health

• Molting: Like all geckos, Tokay Geckos will molt as they grow. They will shed their skin in one piece, and it's important to maintain proper humidity levels to facilitate this process. If the humidity is too low, they may have difficulty shedding, leading to retained skin, particularly around the toes or tail. If you notice incomplete shedding, gently mist the gecko and the enclosure to help it shed properly.
• Health: Tokay Geckos are generally hardy but can suffer from issues related to improper housing conditions, such as low humidity or inadequate temperature. Watch for signs of stress, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or irregular shedding. Respiratory infections, skin problems, and metabolic bone disease are common issues if diet or enclosure conditions are not optimal.

Conclusion

The Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is a striking and dynamic species that makes a unique and rewarding pet for experienced reptile keepers. Their vibrant coloration, active nature, and fascinating behavior make them a standout in the pet hobby, though they do require specific care to thrive. With the right environment, a varied diet, and minimal handling, Tokay Geckos can live long, healthy lives and provide their owners with a captivating and beautiful reptilian companion.