Leopard gecko
The Common leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) is a ground-dwelling lizard. The leopard gecko has become a popular pet, and due to extensive captive breeding it is sometimes referred to as the first domesticated species of lizard.
Common leopard geckos are larger than many other gecko species. Those found in the wild typically have more dark, dull, and drab colorations than those kept in captivity as pets. Those in captivity generally have an assortment of skin colors and patterns. The skin of a Common leopard gecko is very durable, which provides protection from the rough sand and rocky hills terrain of their dry environment. Their dorsal side is covered with small bumps, which gives a rough texture and appearance while their ventral side is thin, transparent, and smooth. Like all reptiles, Common leopard geckos shed their skin. Adults shed an average of once a month, while juveniles will sometimes shed twice as much.
Common leopard geckos are native to south-Asian Afghanistan, Pakistan, northwest India, and some parts of Iran. They live in arid and semi-arid areas with sparse vegetation and clay or sandy soils, as well as rocky habitat where crevices can be used as shelter. Leopard geckos may also be found in arid forests of Nepal and Pakistan, and are reported to shelter under loose bark of trees in these environments.
Common leopard geckos live in loose colonies in the wild. They are considered to be nocturnal reptiles. During the day they retreat to burrows and sheltered hiding spots, becoming active at dusk when the temperature is favorable. Winter temperatures in some areas of their native habitat can be quite low, below 10 °C (50 °F), forcing geckos underground into semi-hibernation, called brumation, living on fat reserves. Common leopard geckos have many predators such as snakes, foxes, and other large reptiles. Their keen sense of hearing and sight help them escape from them during the night. Along with their exceptional sight and hearing abilities, their skin helps camouflage themselves from their predators. Their sense of taste and smell also helps them with survival. They also stay in underground holes and burrows during the daytime, not only to avoid the heat but to also avoid the risk of getting eaten. Common leopard geckos are not very vocal but when stressed they will produce barks and squeaks.
Common leopard geckos are insectivores. They feed on crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms/superworms, scorpions, centipedes, spiders, beetles, and other insects.
Common leopard geckos breed typically in the summer. Females can lay about 6 to 8 clutches, which consist of 2 eggs in each clutch. They will normally lay 2 eggs approximately 21 to 28 days after mating. The sex of the hatchlings is determined based on the temperature at which the eggs are incubated. Females are hatched if the temperatures are between 26-29 °C (7984 °F), while males can be produced from incubation temperatures of 31-33 °C (88-91 °F). After 45 to 60 days, droplets of moisture will appear on the shell and the shell will begin to shrink and partially collapse. These are indications that the eggs will hatch. Baby Common leopard geckos will have an "egg tooth", a calcareous tip at the end of its snout to help break their eggshell. Their "egg tooth" will fall off within 1 to 2 days. In addition to this, their skin will usually shed within 24 hours of hatching. The hatchling will not be able to eat until after the first shedding. Common leopard geckos become reproductively mature at around 1.5 years of age.
Probably the biggest threat to Common leopard geckos is the pet trade. They are very popular lizard pets for their gentle nature.
According to IUCN, the Common leopard lizard is locally common and widespread throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
Common leopard geckos play a very important role in the ecosystem they live in. Being insectivores they maintain insect populations and are prey for other species.
Common leopard geckos are one of the most popular lizard pets. They are possibly the first domesticated lizard species. Their small size, robustness, and relatively easy care make them a good "beginner" reptile pet. They breed easily in captivity, so most sold today are captive-bred rather than wild-caught.