Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just recently met a woman who needs a new home for her 2 leopard geckos and asked if I was interested. I said yes, but have no idea what I'm doing once I actually get them next week. She's giving me their tank/heating and everything, but aside from setup, I'm lost. I own two bearded dragons now and I was just wondering if anyone knew how similar or different the two are to care for. I plan on looking up care sheets, etc, but I just thought I'd start with a comparison of the two species to see what I came up with. Any info would be greatly appreciated... Thanks in advance.

First off leos are nocturnal, this is nice since it means you won't need any type of basking or full spectrum lights. Second leos are completely insectivorous, so you need to have a steady supply of crickets, or mealworms if they will eat them. Third they have lower temp requirements, only around a 90 deg warm spot. Fourth Leos have a higher chance of getting a sand impaction, so don't use a particulate substrate, use paper towels, newspaper, or unglazed tile.

I would definatly get a book and read it. Also leos aren't as "friendly" as beardies. They aren't mean but they don't appriciate handling as much as most beardies.

"Also leos aren't as "friendly" as beardies. They aren't mean but they don't appriciate handling as much as most beardies."

Does this mean don't handle them as much or just that it takes a while to get used to?

Thanks again

Yes.

They tolerate handling well, but I try not to bother mine that way daily or for extended periods. That said, if you let them get used to you in a nonthreatening manner and have a fair amount of patience, they can become quite friendly. Mine will usually just crawl up onto a hand of her own free will. However, when she was a baby, she was pretty nervous, so it took time and effort.

>>"Also leos aren't as "friendly" as beardies. They aren't mean but they don't appriciate handling as much as most beardies."
>>
>>Does this mean don't handle them as much or just that it takes a while to get used to?
>>
>>Thanks again
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0.1 Albino Leopard Gecko - Tigger
0.0.1 Crested Gecko - Pooh-Bear

Leos are a little bit more sensitive when it comes to handling. They get stressed easier and are a little bit more fragile. Especially babies and younger Leos. I would just limit the handling, especially if they seem squirmy and constently try to get away.