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Reptile Basic Care Guides

Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)

Care level: Beginner

Temperament: Very fast and jumpy; handling isn’t recommended due to size

Behavior: crepuscular, arboreal, social

Minimum enclosure size: 2-3 geckos in 12×12×18” (30×30×45cm); some form of population control will be needed or upgrades as population grows

Basking spot temp (surface): 80-85°F (26-29°C)

Cold side temp: 70-75°F (21-24°C)

Nighttime/minimum temp: 65-72°F (18-22°C)

UVB: UVI zone 0.5-1/Ferguson zone 1 (e.g. Arcadia Shadedweller Arboreal 2.5% at 2-4″ (5-10cm) with no mesh or Arcadia Shadedweller 7% at 12+” (30+cm) with typical mesh)

Humidity: 60-70% average with spikes up to 80-90% and dips to 50-60% before misting

Diet: Powdered crested gecko diet and live insects (fruit flies, small crickets, small roaches, etc.)

Adult size: Up to 4” (10cm)

Wild Distribution: various tropical habitats and urban areas throughout multiple islands in the Asian/Oceania regions with invasive populations in other areas such as Hawaii and Central America

(care guide written with contributions by mandi#6740)


Other Resources:

Reptifiles Guide – Mourning Gecko

Dubia.com Guide – Mourning Gecko

NEHERP Guide – Mourning Gecko (good hatchling care info)

ADW – Lepidodactylus