Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello, I really never had an interest in leo geckos until now. I consider myself a scorpion hobbyist, but would like to have something that can be handled. Is it possible to tame babies and have them sit on one's lap or hand?

Also, does anyone use dry coconut fiber as substrate? I know some people use tiles, but doesn't that block the heatpad? Thanks, any comments would be appreciated.

-Hoose

Each baby leo has their own distinct personality, for instance, I have one baby that is extremely skiddish and hates when I try and handle her, then I have an albino baby that whenever I put my hand in the enclosure it just walks right onto my hand, I think she enjoys my body heat. As far as taming them, I really wish I could help but I have no idea.

Many people use tile, the majority of people use paper towels, and some people use washed playsand as substrate for their adult leo's, just be aware the there is always a chance that your leo is at risk for impaction. I don't think that coconut thing you mentioned would be good for leo's because leopard geckos come from pakistan, and in nature their substrate would be sand. As far as the tile heating up thing, the tile may actually get too warm depending on what you are using for heat, some people use a heating mat and they place a towel in between the tank and the heating mat.

Hope this was helpful, and sorry for the long post.

-Jessica

Its my understanding that leos natural habitat is mostly rocky clay, with very little sand. I dont wanna start infamous "leos natural substrate" debate but it's more a mixture of rocks and clay with some sand.
later
Mac

Leos are great for that kind of thing, most can be tamed with patience and are quite calm as adults. Babies shouldnt really be handled often, but once they get older they dont mind coming out at all, some even seem to enjoy the freedom if you let them explore a couch or something.
Though I've never tried it, I've only heard bad things about coconut or walnut shell bedding. It might be fine for scorpians, but the problem is that if they ingest it, it can impact their stomachs and lead to eventual death if not treated. Stay away from any loose substrate atleast until you get a little more experienced.
The safest stuff you can use is paper towels, slate, or reptile carpet. Actually, slate is very good at absorbing heat, and belly heat is very important for leos.
Good luck

Angus is correct, Leopard geckos in the wild live in "high desert mountains of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. In their native habitat they live in the nooks and crannies of the large rock outcroppings surrounded by hard-packed clay soil and rocky dirt." -Golden Gate Geckos

I was just wondering if anyone has or knows anyone that has used soil as a substrate for their leopard geckos?

-Jess

Coconut husk and soil are too damp for leos. I do use the husk for my ball python and it works great. It is very good at keeping the humidity up, but you wouldn't want that with leos.