Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just got my first leopard gecko, and I have a few questions.

1. What is the best way to supplement calcium, in a small dish for their convenience, dusting prey items, or both? I don't want to over or under do it.

2. Can calcium supplement go bad? I have some "Reptocal" with D3 that a friend gave me. He said he thinks its a couple of years old. I havent used it yet because I don't want to harm my gecko.

3. Can I use a black light bulb 24/7 instead of a under the tank heater with out any damage bieng done?

Thanks for any help, its appreciated.

1. I use both dusting and a dish. I would say leave a dish in there and that should be fine if you are just keeping them as pets and not breeding them.

2. I'm not sure on expiration dates on calc. You might want to just go buy a new bottle. Make sure you don't give them too much D3. Quite a few other breeders have told me to much D3 can harm the gecko.

3. I always use an undertank heater. That's just me though...maybe someone else can give you better advice on that.

Hope I helped.