Blog Details Home Table of Contents Related Post Other Categories Species Diet & Nutrition Housing & Setup Health & Wellness Breeding &
Blog Details Home Table of Contents Related Post Other Categories Species Diet & Nutrition Housing & Setup Health & Wellness Breeding &
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The tokay gecko is a large and colorful lizard. It has blue-gray coloured skin with orange spots. This gecko is known for its loud call which sounds like “To-kay”. That’s how it got its name. The tokay gecko species is bold enough to not be afraid to bite when scared. It can live in trees, walls and even homes. These geckos are from Southeast Asia, but some are also found in Florida. People often hear the strange tokay gecko sound at night. Many pet lovers search online for a tokay gecko for sale. These reptiles need special care to stay happy and safe and here is detailed discussion about it.
When I first started looking into reptiles, I didn’t know much about the tokay gecko species. But the more I read, the more curious I became. They weren’t like the quiet, gentle reptiles I was used to. The tokay gecko had a bold look, loud voice, and strong personality. Eventually, I found a tokay gecko for sale through a local breeder and decided to bring one home. I was nervous at first, but everything about the experience was worth it. Since then, I’ve learned a lot about proper tokay gecko care, and I’m still amazed by these incredible creatures every day.
I’ll never forget the first time I saw Kai stretch his whole body across a branch. I hadn’t realized just how large these geckos really were until I saw it up close. The typical tokay gecko size ranges from 8 to 15 inches, which makes them one of the biggest gecko species you can own. When I first saw a tokay gecko for sale, I was told they grow fast, and it’s true. Within a few months, Kai was taking up his whole enclosure. That size makes them strong climbers and hunters, and it’s one of the reasons they need a good amount of space to thrive.
One thing I always tell new keepers is to be ready for the long haul. A healthy tokay gecko can live between 10 to 20 years in captivity. That’s a big responsibility. I’ve had Kai for nearly eight years now, and he’s become a real part of my life. I never expected a lizard to be around so long, but good tokay gecko care really pays off. I followed every tip from a tokay gecko care sheet, made sure his enclosure stayed clean, and kept up with his feeding. If you give them what they need, they’ll reward you with years of fascinating behavior and healthy activity.
Tokay geckos are strictly nocturnal, and I learned that very quickly. During the day, Kai stays hidden in his cork hide. But at night, he comes alive. He climbs, stalks, and explores every inch of his space. It was fun for me because I’m often awake late working or reading. Having a pet that keeps me company at night felt special. Their active nighttime behavior means you don’t usually see them during the day. That’s just part of proper tokay gecko care. You have to respect their natural rhythm. Trying to force interaction during the day stresses them out.
One of the wildest things about owning a tokay gecko is the noise. The first time I heard the deep “To-kay! To-kay!” call, I couldn’t believe a lizard could make a sound that loud. This is the famous tokay gecko sound or what some people call the gecko tokay sound. It’s usually made by males to claim territory or attract a mate. Over the years, I’ve grown used to these tokay gecko noises, and now they feel comforting in a strange way. It’s like having a little piece of the jungle in my room. You’ll never forget the first time you hear it.
I wish someone had warned me earlier about the tokay gecko bite. One day, I tried to handle Kai while he was still adjusting to his new enclosure. That was a mistake. He hissed, lunged, and clamped down on my hand. The pain was sharp, and he wouldn’t let go for what felt like forever. Their tokay gecko teeth are small but strong, and their jaws can lock tightly. After that, I learned to respect his space. They’re not like cuddly reptiles. Most tokay gecko care sheets even advise against handling them often. Now, I just enjoy watching him instead.
Feeding Kai became one of my favorite things. The tokay gecko diet is mainly live insects, and he loves them. Crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms are his main tokay gecko food, though I add calcium powder and the occasional fruit gel for balance. Watching him hunt is amazing—he stalks, lunges, and swallows his prey whole. His big appetite keeps him healthy and active. I feed him about three times a week and always remove leftovers. A clean environment and a steady food routine make a big difference. If you care about your pet’s health, the tokay gecko diet is where you start.
Even though Kai lives with me now, I learned that the tokay gecko Florida population is growing. These geckos were introduced to the U.S. through the pet trade and have since become an invasive species in some areas. People sometimes spot them climbing on buildings in southern Florida, especially in warm, humid places. It’s wild to think that the same species I keep in a tank is also thriving in American neighborhoods. But it’s a reminder that tokay geckos are strong, adaptable, and a little wild, no matter where they live.
When I first looked up the tokay gecko price, I was surprised by the wide range. You can sometimes find one for $20–$40, but high-color morphs or captive-bred options can go over $1000. I chose a captive-bred male to avoid health risks, and I paid around $800. Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Healthy, well-raised geckos make a big difference. If you’re considering a tokay gecko for sale, do your research. Trust me, a little extra cost upfront is worth it in the long run when it comes to health and ease of care.
When I first got into keeping tokay geckos, I started with a wild-type. Its blue-gray skin and red-orange spots were eye-catching. Over time, I got curious about other types. That’s when I started learning about tokay gecko morphs. These are color and pattern variations bred for appearance. Some are soft and pastel, while others are bold and dramatic. Each morph tokay gecko feels like a new species entirely. The more I explored, the more fascinated I became with how unique each one could be. But they all share the same attitude and strong personality.
My wild-type tokay gecko lizard looked just like the ones you see in Southeast Asia. This is the standard look, blue-gray with orange or red spots. These are common in stores and online when searching for a tokay gecko for sale. They’re often less expensive than morphs, especially when checking the tokay gecko price at Petco or local shops. But don’t let the price fool you, these geckos are just as feisty and stunning. I always admired how even this “normal” look stood out in any tokay gecko enclosure I built.
I first saw a powder blue tokay gecko at a reptile show. It had a light, cool tone, almost like sky blue. This morph tokay gecko was softer than the wild-type, both in color and look. I didn’t take it home, but I thought about it for weeks. These are harder to find, and the lighter color makes them unique. When they’re placed in a well-lit tokay gecko enclosure, their soft shades really shine. They’re still noisy at night, making the famous tokay gecko sound, just like any other variety.
The black tokay gecko is like the wild-type’s shadow twin. Its skin is nearly black, with glowing red or orange spots. I haven’t owned one, but I’ve seen a few up close. They’re intense, almost intimidating. These geckos look powerful, especially when full grown. A full grown tokay gecko of this morph can look like a creature from a jungle dream. Some even call them the giant tokay gecko when they grow to larger sizes. They aren’t for beginners, but their dramatic look makes them a collector’s favorite.
One day I saw an albino tokay gecko online. It looked unreal. Light yellow skin, pinkish eyes, and no dark pigment at all. Because of their pale coloring, they need proper tokay gecko care, especially when it comes to lighting. Too much brightness can stress them. They can be sensitive, so beginners should do research before buying. They also cost more than the average tokay gecko price, especially from trusted breeders. But if you’re dedicated and ready to learn, albinos are truly beautiful.
The high-red tokay gecko is one I got to see in a private breeder’s collection. It looked like it was on fire. The red spread across its back, with only small hints of blue showing. These are rare and not easy to breed. They’re one of the most requested types, so if you ever see one on a tokay gecko for sale page, act fast. They make regular tokay gecko noises at night but stand out with their intense color. In the right enclosure, they steal the show.
There are a few rare morphs I’ve only read about or seen in photos. One is the super red tokay gecko, which is almost completely red from head to tail. Another is the patternless morph, which lacks the signature spots and appears solid blue or gray. These types are usually sold privately and are very limited. If you’re serious about collecting, these are must-haves. Their care is similar to other types, but their looks are anything but average. They’re not cheap, but they’re worth it if you love unique geckos.
I also learned that tokay geckos in Florida are considered invasive. They likely escaped from the pet trade and started breeding in the wild. These lizards have adapted well to the warm, humid climate. They can survive on insects and even small rodents. This shows how tough they are. Still, whether you’re keeping one of these stunning morphs or the biggest tokay gecko you can find, always take time to learn what they need, especially what do tokay geckos eat, how long the tokay gecko lifespan is, and how to best care for tokay gecko properly.
When I first started looking for a tokay gecko, I thought it would be as easy as walking into a pet store. But I quickly realized that not all sources are equal—and choosing the right breeder can make a huge difference in your gecko’s health and temperament.
From my experience (and after talking to other keepers), captive-bred tokays are the way to go. They’re typically healthier, less aggressive, and adapt better to living in an enclosure compared to wild-caught ones, which can be stressed and carry parasites.
Here’s a breakdown of the top three places I’ve come across while searching for tokay geckos for sale, plus some things I learned along the way.
This breeder is known for producing high-quality, captive-bred tokay geckos. If you’re serious about owning a healthy, long-lived gecko with strong genetics, New England Reptiles is a solid option.
Their customer service is also responsive, and they’re happy to answer questions even before you make a purchase. That helped me feel more confident as a first-time buyer.
Based in Florida, Underground Reptiles is one of the more popular names when searching tokay geckos for sale online. They usually have a large inventory and often carry both wild-caught and captive-bred tokay geckos, so make sure you check the description carefully.
I personally prefer captive-bred, but I’ve met people who were happy with their wild-caught geckos from Underground just be ready to put in extra time taming them.
Don’t let the name fool you, Snakes at Sunset offers a solid selection of reptiles, including tokay geckos. They’ve been around for years and are based out of Miami, Florida.
Snakes at Sunset was where I bought my first pet tokay gecko, and while he was a bit feisty at first, he’s now thriving.
The price of a tokay gecko really depends on where you buy it, the morph, and whether it’s captive-bred or wild-caught. Here’s a rough breakdown:
While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper one, I’ve found that investing in a well-bred gecko saves money and stress in the long run, especially when it comes to health and temperament.
When I first brought home my pet tokay gecko, I was amazed by its size and attitude. I had only seen tokay gecko pictures and videos before, but having one live in my room was something else. These creatures aren’t your average pet lizard. They’re loud, quick, and need just the right setup. After trying a few setups and learning from mistakes, I finally figured out what works best. So, if you’re wondering how to build the ideal tokay gecko tank, here’s what worked for me.
Where do tokay geckos live? In the wild, they’re found across Southeast Asia, especially in places like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They like warm, wet places and usually hide in trees, under bark, or inside buildings. That gave me a clue: I needed a tall, humid setup with lots of hiding spots. I didn’t want to make a boring tank. I wanted something that mirrored the real tokay gecko habitat, with climbing surfaces, branches, and a moist substrate to mimic the jungle floor.
If you’re thinking about the tokay gecko tank size, trust me—bigger is better. These lizards get big. People often ask, how big does a tokay gecko get? or how big do tokay geckos get? A full grown tokay gecko can reach up to 15 inches long. I once kept a huge tokay gecko that was almost 16 inches—and it needed a lot of space. For one adult, I’d say go with a 20-30 gallon tank at the very least, but vertical space is key. I upgraded to a 36-inch tall glass terrarium and noticed an immediate difference in my gecko’s behavior.
There are different types of enclosures for captive bred tokay geckos. I started with a basic glass terrarium, like the ones made by Exo Terra. They look nice and hold in humidity well. Later, I tried a PVC cage, and I liked it even more. It keeps the air moist and offers more room to add climbing items. Plus, it’s easier to clean. If you’re serious about tokay gecko care, investing in a high-quality tank is worth it. Don’t forget a lockable lid—these guys are escape artists.
I experimented with a few substrates. Paper towels are clean but too dry. Sand isn’t safe. What worked best for me was a bioactive mix made from coconut fiber, leaf litter, and clay balls for drainage. It holds moisture well, smells clean, and even lets isopods and springtails thrive, nature’s cleanup crew. For climbing decor, I used thick branches, cork bark, and ledges. Tokays love to climb and hide. Add multiple hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. This helps them regulate their body temperature, especially after feeding on a hearty tokay gecko diet.
This part took some fine-tuning. I use a ceramic heat emitter for warmth. The basking spot stays at about 88°F, and the cool side stays around 76°F. These temps mimic their jungle homes. People often ask, do tokay geckos need UVB? Technically, no. They’re nocturnal and don’t bask in the sun. But I added a low-level UVB light and noticed brighter colors and better appetite. It’s optional but helpful.
Humidity is key. Tokays come from tropical places, so I aim for 70%–80% humidity. I mist the tank twice daily and use a digital hygrometer. I’ve found that a moist tank helps with shedding and digestion. Without proper humidity, your gecko might get stuck sheds or stop eating. If you hear tokay gecko barking more often than usual, it might be due to stress from the environment.
Despite what tokay gecko images may suggest, these lizards are not cuddly. They’re more for watching than handling. Their natural instinct is to bite when threatened—and the tokay geckos bite hard. I’ve had a few experiences where my gecko latched on and wouldn’t let go. It’s best to respect their space. I learned to enjoy their beauty from behind the glass. I even got used to the loud tokay gecko sound they make at night. That gecko tokay bark is part of their charm especially when they echo in a quiet room.
Feeding a tokay gecko isn’t hard, but it does take some planning. These reptiles have big appetites and strong jaws, and I quickly learned that proper nutrition makes all the difference. When I first brought home my pet tokay gecko, I thought I could just toss in a few crickets now and then. But after some trial and error (and a few ignored insects), I figured out exactly what a tokay gecko eats and how to keep its diet balanced.
In the wild, tokay geckos are fierce hunters. They eat almost anything that moves—bugs, spiders, and even small mice. At home, I feed mine a mix of live insects like crickets, dubia roaches, and superworms. I rotate them to keep things interesting and always dust them with calcium powder. I also add a multivitamin once a week. This has helped keep my giant tokay gecko healthy and active. Once a month, I offer a pinkie mouse as a treat—but only for adults. Feeding them too often can cause obesity.
People often ask me if tokay geckos eat fruit. While they might lick fruit puree now and then, mine has always preferred live prey. Still, I tried offering banana and mango puree, especially when I ran out of bugs. Sometimes he’ll lick it a bit, but it’s clear that bugs are his favorite. So when thinking about tokay gecko food, focus on insects first. Fruit is optional and not really necessary.
This depends on the age and tokay gecko size. Juveniles eat daily and need lots of protein to grow. Adults, like my large tokay gecko, eat every 2–3 days. I usually offer about five roaches or a handful of crickets. If they don’t eat within 10 minutes, I take the extras out. Leaving insects in the enclosure can stress your gecko, especially if they bite back. This feeding schedule helps keep my gecko’s weight steady, which is crucial for long-term tokay gecko care.
Even though I don’t see him drink from a bowl often, hydration is essential. I mist his tank twice a day, and he usually drinks the droplets off the glass and leaves. In the wild, this is how gecko tokay species get water from rain and dew. It’s an easy way to keep him hydrated and to help with shedding. I always keep a clean water bowl in the tank, just in case, but the misting seems to do the job best.
A healthy tokay gecko is alert, has bright colors, and sheds regularly. If your gecko’s skin looks dull or it’s losing weight, the diet may be off. One time, I noticed mine wasn’t eating much. It turned out the tank was too cold, which slowed down digestion. Once I fixed the basking temp, his appetite came right back. If you ever hear strange tokay gecko noises or notice a change in behavior, check the food and setup first.
Here’s what I learned not to do: never feed bugs that are too large. The rule of thumb is to feed insects no bigger than the space between the gecko’s eyes. Also, don’t skip dusting the food. A tokay gecko can develop calcium deficiency quickly, especially growing juveniles. I also don’t recommend feeding wild-caught bugs. They might carry parasites or chemicals. Always buy your feeders from trusted sources or raise your own if you’re serious about long-term tokay gecko care.
When I brought home my first tokay gecko, I wasn’t fully prepared for the challenge. These lizards are stunning, especially the powder blue tokay gecko variety I picked—but their personalities are bold. The first few days were intense. He barked loudly, refused food at first, and lunged at anything that moved. Many new keepers wonder, are tokay geckos good pets? I think they are but not for everyone. You have to respect their space, especially with something as powerful as a tokay gecko bite force behind those jaws.
I got my first tokay gecko bite within a week of owning him. I reached into the tokay gecko cage too fast, and he clamped down hard. The bite force surprised me—it felt like getting caught in pliers. After that, I started using feeding tongs and giving him more space. Over time, he calmed a bit. If you’re looking into a tokay gecko care guide, always start with patience and respect. These lizards are not naturally tame and don’t appreciate being handled like common pets.
What fascinated me most was his stare. The tokay gecko eye is hypnotic, large, golden, and alert. He would watch me from his ledge, barely blinking. I started to understand his patterns. Since tokay geckos are nocturnal, he came out mainly at night. During the day, he stayed hidden in cork bark. At night, he became active climbing, calling, even slapping the glass. These behaviors make tokay geckos interesting to observe, even if you never touch them.
The tokay gecko noise is no joke. The first time I heard it, I jumped. It sounded like a loud, echoing “To-kay!” from the tank corner. These tokay gecko noises are a big part of their charm and surprise. You’ll hear them most during breeding season or when they feel territorial. Some people love the sound; others find it too much. Just know, if you’re thinking about a tokay gecko for sale near me, be ready for the volume.
One thing people ask me is, how big do tokay geckos get? Mine is a tokay giant gecko, and he’s huge. A full grown tokay gecko can reach 15 inches. I had to upgrade his tokay gecko enclosure size pretty early. Now he lives in a tall PVC enclosure that keeps the humidity right and gives him room to climb. If you’re buying a tokay gecko enclosure, make sure it’s vertical—not just wide. These guys love height.
Many people don’t realize this, but where are tokay geckos from originally? They come from Southeast Asia. However, there are now many tokay geckos in Florida too. In fact, are tokay geckos invasive in Florida? Yes—they’ve become an invasive species in certain areas. I’ve even seen locals post photos of wild ones on fences. These lizards are survivors, and while they’re fascinating pets, they don’t always belong in every environment.
While mine is a standard wild-type, I’ve seen others keep morphs like the albino tokay gecko or the powder blue tokay gecko. These unique colors make the species even more appealing. But no matter the morph, the behavior tends to stay the same—bold, vocal, and beautiful. I’d love to add an albino someday, but for now, one large tokay gecko is enough for me!
When I first brought home my tokay gecko, I didn’t expect it to be so defensive. As soon as I opened its tokay gecko cage, it lunged and snapped. That was my quick lesson: Are tokay geckos aggressive? Yes, very much so. These lizards are famous for their bold attitude and strong tokay gecko bite force. It’s not just a nip. They can clamp down and hold for several seconds. I learned quickly to respect its space and let it settle before trying to interact again.
Taming a pet tokay gecko takes serious time and patience. I tried every trick—hand-feeding, soft talking, slow movements. Still, it never became comfortable with touch. If you’re wondering “Are tokay geckos good pets?”, the truth is—they’re better for experienced keepers. These geckos are not ideal for handling. Some may calm over months or years, but most stay defensive. If you see a tokay gecko for sale near me, remember: they’re not beginner reptiles. Think of them as display pets with strong personalities.
One night, I heard the loudest “TO-KAY!” coming from the tank. It startled me. That was my first experience with the infamous tokay gecko bark. The tokay gecko sound is loud, clear, and completely unique. People sometimes ask, “Why do tokay geckos bark?” These sounds usually mean one of two things—territory or courtship. Males especially will shout when they feel threatened or during mating season. The tokay gecko noises may be jarring at first, but they’re a natural part of their behavior and actually kind of cool once you get used to them.
Without a doubt, yes. From day one, mine explored every wall and branch. Where are tokay geckos from? Mostly Southeast Asia—where they live in trees and cliffs. In captivity, they need space to climb. If you own a tokay giant gecko, vertical room is a must. My captive bred tokay gecko spends most of his time on high ledges or cork bark. That’s because tokay geckos are nocturnal and highly arboreal—they love being up high. A tall cage is more important than a wide one. Watching a large tokay gecko scale the walls is one of my favorite parts of the night routine.
When I got my first tokay gecko, I had no idea how to tell if it was healthy. Over time, I learned what signs to watch for. A healthy tokay has clear eyes, smooth skin, and a strong appetite. It reacts quickly if disturbed and shows good grip when climbing. My gecko’s colors are always bright, which is another good sign. I always check for clean nostrils and a firm tail. A healthy tail usually means good fat storage, which is important for these lizards.
Even with proper care, issues can come up. One of the first problems I ran into was shedding. My gecko had stuck shed around its toes. That can be dangerous, as it may cut off circulation. I learned to keep humidity up and gently help with a moist cotton swab. Another time, I noticed swelling around its mouth. A vet confirmed it was mouth rot, also called stomatitis. It was likely due to a small cut that got infected. Luckily, we caught it early, and antibiotics helped.
I’ve heard of many gecko owners struggling with MBD. Thankfully, I haven’t had to deal with this directly, but it’s a serious risk. MBD happens when a gecko doesn’t get enough calcium or vitamin D3. Their bones weaken and may even twist. A friend’s captive bred tokay gecko had this issue due to poor lighting and diet. Watching her struggle was heartbreaking. She changed her setup by adding supplements and UVB lighting. Within a few months, her gecko improved a lot. That made me more careful with my own gecko’s diet.
When I first started looking at tokay geckos for sale, I didn’t realize the risks that come with wild-caught ones. A wild-caught gecko I purchased had internal parasites. It showed signs like weight loss and runny stool. The vet did a fecal test and gave me medicine to treat it. Ever since, I try to buy captive bred tokay geckos when possible. They’re usually healthier and adapt better to life in captivity.
Tokays shed quite often, and every time mine does, I watch closely. A bad shed can lead to infections or even lost toes. One trick I use is placing a rough piece of cork bark in the enclosure. My gecko rubs against it to loosen the skin. I also mist the tank more during shedding time. High humidity makes a huge difference. I now check the toes, eyes, and tail tip every time just to be sure nothing is stuck.
Knowing when to go to the vet can save your gecko’s life. If my tokay gecko refuses to eat for more than a week or seems sluggish, I call my reptile vet. Once, I noticed my gecko had bubbles at its nose. That was a sign of a respiratory infection. A short course of antibiotics cleared it up. Not every vet knows reptiles, so finding a good one early is important. I now keep a vet’s number saved just in case.
When I first moved to South Florida, I was surprised to hear loud barking sounds outside my window at night. I initially thought it was a bird or maybe even a frog. But after some curiosity (and a flashlight), I spotted a large tokay gecko clinging to the side of a palm tree. It wasn’t in a cage—it was wild. That’s when I learned that tokay geckos are invasive in Florida, and they’ve already formed breeding populations in some areas.
Yes—tokay geckos (Gekko gecko) are now considered invasive in several parts of Florida, especially in the south. These lizards were originally introduced through the exotic pet trade, often sold in reptile shops or released by owners who didn’t expect them to grow so large or become so aggressive. Unfortunately, some escaped or were let go, and their populations have taken off in the wild.
I’ve seen tokay geckos in Florida more than once, mostly around urban areas where there are plenty of insects and hiding places. They’re hard to miss, their blue-gray bodies and red-orange spots stand out, and so does the loud “TO-kay!” call they make at night. That gecko tokay sound is unforgettable once you’ve heard it.
What concerned me most was the effect they could be having on native species. Tokay geckos are predators, they’ll eat almost anything they can overpower, including insects, small lizards, frogs, and even baby birds. I once saw a tokay gecko chase down a green anole, a native Florida lizard, and I couldn’t help but think of the long-term impact.
These geckos are aggressive, strong biters, and highly territorial. As their numbers grow, they’re competing with native reptiles for food and shelter. They’ve even been spotted in protected areas like parks and nature reserves. Some biologists have warned that tokay geckos in Florida could contribute to the decline of smaller native lizard populations if left unchecked.
When I talked to a reptile enthusiast at a local expo, he mentioned that Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) had taken notice of the problem. In some counties, the tokay gecko is listed as a regulated species. This means there are rules around owning, breeding, and selling them.
If you’re thinking about getting a pet tokay gecko in Florida, it’s important to check the latest legal status. Even though you may find a tokay gecko for sale online or at an expo, responsible ownership is key. Releasing one into the wild is not only irresponsible—it’s potentially illegal and damaging to Florida’s ecosystem.
Breeding tokay geckos is not for the faint of heart. I still remember the first time I introduced a male and female into the same enclosure. The male’s call, that unmistakable tokay gecko sound echoed through the room like a deep bark. I had done all the research, but nothing quite prepares you for witnessing these intense, territorial lizards in breeding mode.
Before pairing, I had to be absolutely sure I had a male and a female. Sexing tokay geckos is fairly straightforward if you know what to look for. Males have prominent femoral pores along their thighs and visible hemipenal bulges at the base of their tail. Females, by contrast, have flat undersides and no bulges.
I used a magnifying glass and a headlamp to double-check their features. Trust me, this step is essential. Introducing two males can lead to brutal fights. And let’s not forget, tokay geckos bite hard.
I didn’t rush the process. First, I made sure their enclosure was spacious, warm, and full of climbing surfaces. A tokay gecko enclosure must mimic their natural habitat to encourage breeding. I used a vertical terrarium with thick cork bark slabs, hanging plants, and multiple hides.
Humidity was kept around 70–80%, and I maintained a daytime temperature gradient of 75–90°F. While UVB lighting isn’t required, I included a low-output bulb for extra calcium metabolism and health. This was especially important for the female to develop strong eggs.
Breeding typically occurs during warmer months. I noticed an increase in activity — the male would call more frequently, often producing loud tokay gecko noises, which are mating calls and territory claims.
About a month after pairing, I spotted two sticky, white eggs cemented to the back wall of the terrarium. Tokay geckos are known for gluing their eggs to surfaces, which can’t be removed without damaging them. I carefully adjusted the enclosure’s humidity and made sure that particular area stayed undisturbed.
The incubation period was one of the most exciting and stressful parts. At a steady 82–85°F, it took around 90 to 100 days for the eggs to hatch. I resisted the urge to check them too often, as handling can disrupt the delicate embryo inside.
When the eggs finally hatched, I was surprised by how tiny and fast the babies were. Even at birth, the baby tokay geckos had attitude. They were defensive, quick, and already vocal — little replicas of their fierce parents.
Caring for hatchlings required a separate enclosure, with high humidity, tiny feeder insects like pinhead crickets, and daily misting. I kept them in individual small enclosures at first to avoid fighting. Their growth rate was impressive, and I could already imagine how big they’d get.
If you’ve ever asked, how big do tokay geckos get? let me tell you, a full-grown tokay gecko can reach 13 to 15 inches easily. That’s a large tokay gecko by most standards. And yes, they remain just as territorial as adults.
Only if you’re experienced and ready for a challenge. While the process is incredibly rewarding, it’s not simple. These animals require patience, respect, and detailed care — but seeing those hatchlings crawl out for the first time? It’s unforgettable.
Honestly? It hurts more than I expected. The first time I got bit, I was just trying to refill the water dish and bam! It clamped on and held tight. Tokay geckos have really strong jaws for their size. It’s not just a quick nip; they mean business. Since then, I’ve learned to give them space when they’re cranky.
I wouldn’t recommend it. I once thought about pairing two up to save space, but even researching it told me it was a bad idea. These geckos are super territorial, and they don’t really like roommates. One male will usually try to dominate the other—and that rarely ends well. So yeah, keep them solo.
They definitely need warmth, but I don’t always use a “lamp” exactly. I’ve had good luck using a ceramic heat emitter or a heat mat. What matters is keeping their space warm—especially at night. Mine started acting more normal once I got the temps steady, around 85 on the warm side.
If you asked me this when I got my first tokay, I’d have guessed way too small. Now I know better. Mine is in a 30-gallon tall tank, and I honestly wouldn’t go smaller than that. These guys love to climb. Give them height, not just floor space.
Been there. It freaked me out at first. I’ve found it’s usually stress, wrong temps, or they’re about to shed. One of mine didn’t eat for a week after I rearranged the tank—turns out, they don’t love surprises. If it lasts more than a few days, though, I’d get a reptile vet to take a look.
When I first got into reptiles, I never imagined I’d end up with a tokay gecko. Honestly, I’d heard they were mean, loud, and hard to handle—and some of that turned out to be true. But over time, I’ve come to really respect them for what they are.
These geckos aren’t cuddly. They don’t want to sit on your hand, and they’ll let you know it with a strong bite if you push your luck. But there’s something rewarding about earning their trust—even just a little bit. Watching them come out at night, hearing that unmistakable “to-kay!” call, and seeing their bright colors light up under their heat lamp… it never gets old.
If you’re thinking about getting one, just know they’re not beginner pets. They need space to climb, steady humidity, and a diet that keeps their bones and body healthy. Skimping on any of that will come back to bite you—maybe literally.
The best advice I can give? Do your research. Don’t rush to buy the first gecko you see online. Read a few good care guides, talk to keepers in reptile groups, and make sure you’re ready for the commitment. These geckos can live over a decade if you do things right.
I won’t sugarcoat it, keeping a tokay gecko can be tough at first. But if you’re patient, careful, and okay with a little wild energy in your reptile room, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience.
Hi, I'm Lana Dunning, and I'm passionate about geckos! I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with these fascinating creatures. Whether you're a seasoned reptile keeper or just starting out, I hope you find my blog informative and enjoyable.
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