Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi,

i have a sub-adult leo that was doing well until recently. she has stopped eating on her own (i'm having to force feed her), but is drinking water... and is really thin. while scooping out her feces today, i noticed there were tiny little bugs (grayish in color, almost microscopic) crawling around the area where she uses the bathroom... i don't think they're mites because i looked on her skin and found nothing. btw, i use repti-bark as a substrate, do you think it's possible that she ingested some and is maybe sick from it?

thanks in advance,

Ian

You should get the fecal examination as soon as possible. It sounds like an infestation of parasites or something. If you can, take her, her fresh poo, and some money to the vet.

Good luck!

Paullywog

Hi Ian,

IF you are certain they are not mites, if they are not on her at all anywhere, than the grayish tiny bugs you are seeing under the bark chips may be whats called SPRINGTAILS !

They are tiny grayish , whitish, bugs that kinda jump a bit like a flea, they live in mulches, under logs, around plants, under bark, anywhere that has some dampness, and decay (in this case feces)
Most feed on algae, fungi, and decaying vegetable matter, and they are abundant only in damp, moist or very humid locations.

As far as your gecko being skinny, and not wanting to eat, maybe you SHOULD, see a Vet for parasites, such as worms. Don't want to wait till its too late.

Parasites can zap them. Worms can make them very lethargic, and they can lose their appetite.

Have you had her long? Did she just lay eggs or anything that would have had an effect on her weight?

Are your temps right? If you feel that you have her properly set up, then I would call your Vet and Ask !

Sorry could not have been more help ! Hope your gecko, feels better soon.

Keep us updated on her!
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Eve