Geckos in Zoos
Geckos are a colorful family of reptiles and a popular pet. In zoos, geckos are often housed alongside other cold-blooded animals in a climate-controlled environment. To provide a healthy living space for geckos, zoo workers must have a basic understanding of the animal's basic needs, such as feeding habits and mating behaviors. Learning about geckos in zoos helps increase your appreciation for these unique animals and the type of care they require.
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Species
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Geckos are among the most varied animals in the lizard family. Leopard, panther, tokay and dwarf geckos are just a few of the species that may be found in zoos. According to Geckos Unlimited, leopard geckos -- which are frequently kept as pets -- can live up to 10 years when properly cared for. Geckos come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, green and pink. Some are brightly hued, while others are more subtly patterned. A few species can even change color as a result of temperature changes or to blend in with their surroundings. All gecko species are cold-blooded and reproduce by laying eggs.
Feeding Habits
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Geckos are predators that spend much of their time hunting for food. While food preferences vary slightly according to species, the diet consists mostly of insects and small rodents. Crickets, mealworms and grasshoppers make a good meal, as do wax worms and moths. Fruit flies are a healthy choice for baby geckos, while adults can eat small pinky mice once they've reached full size. To ensure proper nutrition, zoo staff may coat insects in protein powder or other supplements before feeding. Most zoos have set times for feeding, such as early mornings or after closing.
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Habitat
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Geckos can be found on nearly every continent from Europe to Africa. Climate plays a central role in the gecko's survival, with ideal temperatures ranging from 78 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 75 at night. Because of these specific temperature needs, geckos are usually kept in climate-controlled tanks near other cold-blooded animals in zoos. Many zoos design gecko containers to resemble the animal's natural habitat, though this is not necessary for survival.
Behavior
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Geckos are mostly nocturnal, though some are active periodically throughout the day. This behavior comes in handy for desert-dwelling species that sleep through the heat of the day and hunt at night. A gecko's sex is determined by temperature, with cool weather producing more females and warmer weather producing males. Geckos generally begin mating between eight and nine months of age, when they reach sexual maturity. According to the San Diego Zoo, newly hatched geckos are capable of caring for themselves and don't require a mother's help. While some gecko species don't mind being handled, touching is prohibited in a zoo environment, where they could be harmed.
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