Welcome to our comprehensive care guide for the Standing’s Day Gecko. This diurnal, omnivorous arboreal gecko species is native to southwest Madagascar and is known for its vibrant colors. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to create a suitable habitat, establish proper feeding routines, and ensure the overall well-being of your Standing’s Day Gecko.
Key Takeaways:
- Standing’s Day Geckos are diurnal geckos with vibrant colors, native to southwest Madagascar.
- They require a well-setup habitat with ample climbing space, tropical plants, and enrichment items for exercise and stimulation.
- Proper lighting and UVB are essential for their health and should be provided using recommended lamps.
- Maintain specific temperature and humidity ranges to ensure optimal conditions for your gecko.
- Choose suitable substrates and decorate the terrarium with hiding places, climbing materials, and live plants for environmental enrichment.
Standing’s Day Gecko Species Overview
Standing’s Day Geckos, scientifically known as Phelsuma standingi, are diurnal geckos native to southwest Madagascar. They are omnivorous, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. These geckos primarily feed on insects, nectar, and fruit juices in their natural habitat.
This species is known for its vibrant colors, making them a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts. Juveniles display a striking yellow-green head and a mint green to aqua blue body, while adults have a gray base color with hints of green or yellow in the head and a blue tint to the tail. Their captivating hues add a tropical touch to any reptile collection.
Native to the southwest region of Madagascar, Standing’s Day Geckos thrive in the warm and humid environments of tropical forests. These arboreal geckos are well-adapted to living in the treetops, where they can find shelter and hunt for their preferred food sources.
Standing’s Day Geckos are known for their diurnal nature, meaning they are active during the day. Their vibrant colors make them a delightful sight to behold as they bask in the sunlight, showcasing their beauty and unique features.
With their omnivorous diet and stunning appearance, Standing’s Day Geckos offer reptile enthusiasts a captivating glimpse into the rich biodiversity found in southwest Madagascar.
Habitat Setup for Standing’s Day Geckos
When it comes to creating the perfect habitat for your Standing’s Day Geckos, there are several important factors to consider. Providing a suitable terrarium size, climbing space, and enriching their environment with tropical plants and enrichment items are all key elements to ensure their well-being.
Terrarium Size
Adequate space is crucial for Standing’s Day Geckos to thrive. The minimum recommended enclosure size for a single gecko is 24”L x 24”W x 48”H. However, larger enclosures are highly recommended as they provide more room for your geckos to roam and explore. A spacious terrarium allows them to establish their territories and exhibit natural behaviors.
Climbing Space and Enrichment
Standing’s Day Geckos are arboreal creatures and require ample climbing space. Incorporating branches, vines, and cork hollows into the terrarium provides vertical elements for them to climb and explore. Not only does this mimic their natural habitat, but it also promotes exercise and stimulates their natural instincts.
Tropical Plants
Live tropical plants play a vital role in the habitat setup for Standing’s Day Geckos. They not only enhance the visual appeal of the terrarium but also provide hiding spots and create a more natural environment. Some suitable plant options include Pothos, Bromeliads, and Philodendrons. These plants also contribute to the overall humidity levels in the enclosure.
Enrichment Items
Enrichment items such as hides, cork rounds, and rocks offer additional opportunities for your geckos to explore and engage with their environment. These items provide hiding places and create a sense of security for your geckos. They also encourage natural behaviors and give your geckos a chance to exercise and stay mentally stimulated.
By carefully considering the habitat setup, terrarium size, climbing space, inclusion of tropical plants, and enrichment items, you can provide a comfortable and enriching environment for your Standing’s Day Geckos to thrive.
Lighting and UVB Requirements for Standing’s Day Geckos
Proper lighting and UVB exposure are essential for the health and well-being of your Standing’s Day Geckos. As diurnal species, they rely on bright light and UVB radiation to support their natural behaviors and physiological processes.
To meet their lighting needs, it is crucial to provide a basking area that maintains a temperature of 90-95°F (32-35°C). This allows the geckos to thermoregulate and promotes their overall activity and metabolism. Additionally, the basking area should have access to bright light with a color temperature of around 6500K to mimic natural sunlight.
UVB lighting is particularly important for Standing’s Day Geckos as it aids in their calcium metabolism and promotes vitamin D synthesis. UVB rays help these geckos produce vitamin D3, which is necessary for calcium absorption and utilization.
When selecting UVB bulbs, it is crucial to opt for high-quality lamps that emit adequate UVB radiation. Recommended options for Standing’s Day Geckos include the Arcadia ShadeDweller Arboreal kit and the Zoo Med T5 HO Reptisun 5.0. These bulbs provide the necessary UVB output and help create an optimal lighting environment for your geckos.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for bulb placement and replacement intervals to ensure your geckos receive consistent UVB exposure. Regularly monitoring the temperature and intensity of the basking area, as well as the UVB output, will help maintain optimal conditions for your Standing’s Day Geckos.
| Brand | Model | UVB Output | Recommended Terrarium Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arcadia | ShadeDweller Arboreal kit | 5.0 UVB | 24”L x 24”W x 48”H or larger |
| Zoo Med | T5 HO Reptisun 5.0 | 5.0 UVB | 24”L x 24”W x 48”H or larger |
Temperature and Humidity Requirements for Standing’s Day Geckos
Proper temperature and humidity levels play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of your Standing’s Day Geckos. It is important to create a habitat that mimics their natural environment to promote their overall health and happiness.
Basking Area Temperature
The basking area of the terrarium should be maintained at a temperature range of 90-95°F (32-35°C). This warm zone allows the geckos to regulate their body temperature and aids in digestion.
Cool Zone Temperature
The cool zone of the terrarium should have a temperature range between 75-88°F (24-31°C). This provides a comfortable and cooler area where the geckos can retreat to when they need a break from the heat.
Nighttime Temperature
During the nighttime, it is recommended to lower the temperature to around 72-74°F (22-23°C). This drop in temperature simulates the natural cooling of their environment, allowing the geckos to rest and conserve energy.
Humidity Levels
Maintaining the proper humidity level is essential for the health and well-being of your Standing’s Day Geckos. The humidity should be kept between 40-75%, as this replicates their tropical habitat in southwest Madagascar.
A tip for maintaining humidity levels is regular misting of the terrarium using a spray bottle or the use of a Terrarium Fogger. This helps to create a moist environment and prevent the enclosure from becoming too dry.
Monitoring and maintaining the appropriate temperature and humidity levels in your gecko’s habitat is vital. Regularly check the thermometer and hygrometer to ensure that the conditions are within the recommended ranges. Doing so will help promote the overall health, comfort, and longevity of your Standing’s Day Geckos.
Substrate Options for Standing’s Day Geckos
While Standing’s Day Geckos are arboreal and spend most of their time off the ground, a moisture-retentive substrate is still beneficial for stabilizing humidity and providing cushioning if they fall.
Some suitable substrate options include:
- DIY tropical mix (organic topsoil and coconut fiber)
- Zoo Med Reptisoil
- Eco Earth
- Exo Terra Plantation Soil
A layer of leaf litter can also be added for enrichment.
Choosing the right substrate for your Standing’s Day Geckos is crucial for their overall well-being. A moisture-retentive substrate helps maintain the required humidity levels in their terrarium, which is essential for their health and proper shedding. Additionally, it provides a soft landing surface, reducing the risk of injury if they accidentally fall from their perch. Here are some recommended substrate options:
- DIY tropical mix: Create a substrate blend by combining organic topsoil and coconut fiber. This mixture retains moisture well and creates a natural environment for your geckos.
- Zoo Med Reptisoil: This pre-mixed substrate is specially formulated for reptiles. It is moisture-retentive and contains additional nutrients to support plant growth.
- Eco Earth: Made from compressed coconut fiber, Eco Earth is a popular choice for reptile keepers. It has excellent moisture retention properties and is easy to maintain.
- Exo Terra Plantation Soil: Similar to Zoo Med Reptisoil, this substrate is specifically designed for tropical terrariums. It creates a natural-looking habitat and aids in maintaining humidity levels.
Tip: Remember to regularly monitor the moisture levels in the substrate and adjust accordingly to ensure it remains suitable for your geckos’ needs.
In addition to the substrate options mentioned above, adding a layer of leaf litter to the bottom of the terrarium can provide additional enrichment. Leaf litter not only mimics the natural forest floor but also encourages foraging behavior and provides hiding spots for small invertebrates, which can be part of your geckos’ natural diet.
Decorating Your Standing’s Day Gecko Terrarium
Environmental enrichment plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of your Standing’s Day Geckos. Creating a visually appealing and stimulating habitat will not only enhance their overall happiness but also promote their natural behaviors. Here are some key elements to consider when decorating your gecko’s terrarium:
Hiding Places
Providing sufficient hiding places is vital to make your geckos feel secure in their environment. Cork rounds and bamboo hollows are excellent options for hiding spots. These natural materials not only blend seamlessly with the terrarium aesthetics but also offer cozy retreats for your geckos to retreat to when needed.
Climbing Materials
Standing’s Day Geckos are skilled climbers by nature. Including various climbing materials, such as sturdy vines and branches, will enable them to exhibit their natural behavior of exploring and climbing. These materials also serve as additional perches, allowing your geckos to enjoy different heights and vantage points within the terrarium.
Live Plants
Introducing live plants to your terrarium not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to increased humidity levels. Choose tropical plants that thrive in the gecko’s habitat, such as Pothos or Philodendrons. These plants provide a natural and lush backdrop for your geckos while promoting a more humid environment essential for their well-being.
Environmental Enrichment
Creating an enriched environment involves incorporating various elements that stimulate your gecko’s natural instincts. Apart from hiding places and climbing materials, you can consider adding items like insect feeders, puzzle feeders, or interactive toys for mental and physical stimulation. This will keep your geckos engaged and prevent boredom.
Decorations
Decorations play a vital role in enhancing the overall aesthetics of your gecko’s terrarium. You can choose decorative items, such as natural rock formations, artificial plants, or small figurines, that blend well with the tropical theme. Ensure these decorations are gecko-safe and do not pose any hazards or risks to your pets.
By carefully considering and incorporating these elements into your Standing’s Day Gecko’s terrarium, you can create a visually appealing and enriching environment that mimics their natural habitat. This will provide them with the perfect space to thrive and exhibit their natural behaviors.
Feeding Routine for Standing’s Day Geckos
Feeding your Standing’s Day Geckos a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. As omnivores, these geckos have a varied diet that includes both insects and fruit. Establishing a proper feeding routine and ensuring adequate calcium supplementation is crucial to meet their dietary requirements.
Feeder Insects
One of the main components of the Standing’s Day Gecko diet is feeder insects. These geckos readily consume a variety of insects, such as crickets and dubia roaches. Feeder insects should be gut-loaded with nutritious food to maximize their nutritional value for your geckos. It is recommended to dust the feeder insects with calcium supplements before feeding to ensure the geckos receive sufficient calcium, which is vital for bone health.
Fruit Diet
Standing’s Day Geckos can also be fed instant crested gecko fruit diet, such as Repashy or other reputable brands. These fruit diets provide a convenient and balanced option that mimics the natural fruits and nectar these geckos consume in the wild. However, it is important to note that fruit diets should not be the sole source of nutrition and should be supplemented with insects to meet their dietary needs.
Feeding should be done once a week for both insects and fruit diet. This feeding routine ensures that your geckos receive regular nourishment without overfeeding, which can lead to obesity and other health issues. It is important to monitor their body condition and adjust the feeding frequency if necessary, considering their age, activity level, and overall health.
| Feeding Routine for Standing’s Day Geckos | Frequency | Food |
|---|---|---|
| Feeder Insects | Once a week | Insects such as crickets and dubia roaches, dusted with calcium supplements |
| Fruit Diet | Once a week | Instant crested gecko fruit diet, such as Repashy or other reputable brands |
Providing a varied and balanced diet is essential for the health and longevity of your Standing’s Day Geckos. By following a proper feeding routine and ensuring calcium supplementation, you can help your geckos thrive and enjoy their natural behaviors.
Handling and Interaction with Standing’s Day Geckos
While handling Standing’s Day Geckos can be tempting, it is important to consider their temperament and natural behavior. These geckos can become hand-tame and are generally outgoing. However, regular handling is not recommended as they are still wild animals and may become stressed or uncomfortable with excessive handling.
It is best to limit handling to avoid potential harm to the gecko. Instead, focus on creating a suitable environment and providing proper care to ensure their well-being. By prioritizing a comfortable and enriching habitat, you can observe and appreciate the natural behavior of these fascinating creatures.
Temperament of Standing’s Day Geckos
Standing’s Day Geckos generally have a friendly temperament and can become used to human presence when provided with a stress-free environment. With time and patience, they may begin to tolerate occasional gentle handling, especially if they associate it with positive experiences, such as feeding or the presence of their favorite hiding spots.
Tip: When interacting with your Standing’s Day Gecko, always approach them slowly and gently. Allow them to feel comfortable and explore their surroundings at their own pace.
Creating a Gecko-friendly Environment
To ensure the well-being of your Standing’s Day Gecko, focus on optimizing their habitat. Provide ample hiding places, such as cork rounds or bamboo hollows, where they can retreat and feel secure. Additionally, incorporate climbing materials, including vines and branches, to encourage natural behavior.
Live plants not only enhance the visual appeal of the enclosure but also provide environmental enrichment and increased humidity. By recreating their natural habitat as closely as possible, you can help your gecko feel more at home and reduce the need for excessive handling.
The Importance of Observation
One of the joys of keeping Standing’s Day Geckos is observing their fascinating behavior and natural instincts. By stepping back and observing from a distance, you can gain a deeper appreciation for their unique personalities and interactions within their habitat.
Take the time to watch their hunting strategies, basking rituals, and social interactions with other geckos (if keeping them in a group). This approach allows the geckos to live a more natural life, contributing to their overall well-being and truly appreciating the beauty of these remarkable creatures.
Housing Multiple Standing’s Day Geckos
Standing’s Day Geckos can be housed together successfully in breeding pairs, but it is essential to monitor their behavior and prevent conflicts from arising. If you do not intend to breed them, it is recommended to keep either a single gecko or a group of strictly females to avoid territorial disputes. Providing a larger enclosure is necessary to allow the geckos ample space and reduce the likelihood of territorial conflicts.
When housing multiple Standing’s Day Geckos, it is crucial to create an environment that caters to their natural needs, such as providing enough hiding spots, climbing surfaces, and ample room for each gecko to establish its own territory. This will help minimize aggression and stress among the geckos.
Key points for housing multiple Standing’s Day Geckos:
- Monitor their behavior
- Avoid housing males together
- Create a suitable environment with hiding spots and climbing surfaces
- Provide ample space to reduce territorial conflicts
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a harmonious living arrangement for your multiple Standing’s Day Geckos while promoting their overall well-being and reducing any potential conflicts.
An example of a suitable enclosure for housing multiple Standing’s Day Geckos.
Lighting and Heating Options for Standing’s Day Geckos
Proper lighting and heating are essential for creating a suitable habitat for your Standing’s Day Geckos. There are various options available to ensure that your geckos receive the necessary light, warmth, and humidity they need to thrive.
Lighting
When it comes to lighting, fluorescent strip lighting combined with basking lights is a popular choice for smaller enclosures. Fluorescent strip lighting provides general illumination to mimic natural daylight, while basking lights create a designated warm area for your geckos to thermoregulate.
Heating
In smaller enclosures, basking lights can also fulfill the heating requirements for your Standing’s Day Geckos. However, in larger enclosures, using mercury vapor bulbs is recommended. These bulbs provide both UVB radiation and heat, creating a more balanced and efficient heating source for your geckos.
Humidity Considerations
Humidity is another important factor to consider when selecting lighting and heating options for your Standing’s Day Geckos. These geckos thrive in environments with moderate to high humidity levels, typically ranging between 50% and 70%. To maintain proper humidity, ensure the enclosure is well-sealed and consider using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
Tip: It’s crucial to strike a balance between lighting, heating, and humidity to create a comfortable and healthy environment for your Standing’s Day Geckos.
| Lighting Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fluorescent Strip Lighting | – Provides general illumination – Suitable for smaller enclosures | – Additional basking lights may be required – Limited heat output |
| Mercury Vapor Bulbs | – Provides UVB radiation and heat – Suitable for larger enclosures – More efficient heating source | – Higher initial cost – May require additional fixtures |
Breeding Standing’s Day Geckos
Yearning to breed your own adorable Standing’s Day Geckos? Look no further! Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season, between December and March, mimicking their natural habitat. Females are known to lay multiple clutches of 2 eggs each, with an approximate interval of 30-70 days.
Excitingly, you can remove these precious eggs for incubation purposes, ensuring optimal development. A well-equipped incubator will provide the necessary conditions to safeguard the eggs, allowing them to mature and hatch successfully. It’s imperative to be patient and delicate during this crucial phase.
It’s important to remember that sexual maturity is typically reached after approximately one year. Once your geckos have reached this milestone, it’s vital to ensure the proper incubation conditions for successful hatching.
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Mating | December to March (rainy season) |
| Egg laying | Every 30-70 days |
| Incubation | Approximately 60-80 days |
| Sexual maturity | Approximately one year |
During the breeding season, take extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of your geckos. Provide them with a suitable habitat and maintain optimal conditions for mating, egg laying, and incubation. With the right care and attention, you can witness the magical journey of bringing new life into the world of Standing’s Day Geckos.
Sexing Standing’s Day Geckos
Sexing Standing’s Day Geckos can be determined by examining the presence of femoral pores on the hind legs, near the base of the tail. Males have yellow femoral pores, while females do not possess these pores. By carefully observing this characteristic, you can accurately determine the gender of your gecko.
It is important to note that both male and female Standing’s Day Geckos can display territorial behavior. This behavior commonly occurs when housing multiple geckos together. Territorial disputes can arise, leading to stress and potentially harming the well-being of the geckos. Therefore, caution should be exercised when housing geckos in a shared enclosure to ensure a harmonious living environment.
Lifespan and Size of Standing’s Day Geckos
Standing’s Day Geckos are fascinating creatures with a lifespan of 15-20 years when kept in captivity. These beautiful geckos undergo impressive growth rates, quickly reaching adulthood in just one year. As hatchlings, they measure around 3-3.5 inches in length, but can grow to an impressive adult size of 8-11 inches.
Males generally grow larger than females, showcasing their remarkable size and presence. The growth and overall lifespan of Standing’s Day Geckos are greatly influenced by factors such as proper nutrition, a well-designed habitat setup, and consistent care.
By providing your gecko with a balanced diet, a spacious and enriched living environment, and regular health check-ups, you can help ensure that they thrive and live a long, fulfilling life.
Take a closer look at the size and growth rate of Standing’s Day Geckos in the table below:
Age Size (inches) Hatchling 3-3.5 1 year 8-11
Natural Range and Conservation Status of Standing’s Day Geckos
The natural range of Standing’s Day Geckos encompasses the drier parts of Madagascar, specifically the regions of Andranolaha, Sakahara, and Zombitse-Vohibasia National Parks. These geckos have adapted to thrive in the unique ecosystem of southwest Madagascar, where they can be found in tropical dry forests and other suitable habitats.
Unfortunately, Standing’s Day Geckos are currently classified as a vulnerable species according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Their numbers have been declining due to habitat loss, primarily caused by deforestation and human activity. Additionally, illegal collection for the pet trade has further threatened their populations in the wild.
To protect and conserve these beautiful geckos, it is essential to adopt responsible practices. One way to support their conservation efforts is by purchasing only captive-bred individuals. This helps reduce the demand for wild-caught geckos and ensures that their natural range is preserved. By respecting and protecting their habitat, we can work towards the preservation of Standing’s Day Geckos for future generations.
Through awareness and education, we can promote the conservation of these vulnerable species and contribute to their long-term survival in their natural habitat.
Standing’s Day Geckos in the Hobby
The popularity of Standing’s Day Geckos in the hobby has soared, thanks to their stunning coloration and friendly temperament. These geckos have become a favorite among reptile enthusiasts, as their vibrant hues and outgoing nature make them a delight to observe and care for.
Captive breeding efforts have played a crucial role in meeting the demand for these geckos and reducing the need for wild-caught individuals. Dedicated and passionate breeders have made significant contributions to the availability of captive-bred Standing’s Day Geckos in the market.
When considering acquiring a Standing’s Day Gecko, it is important to support ethical breeding practices by purchasing captive-bred individuals. By doing so, you contribute to the preservation of this unique species and help ensure a sustainable supply for future generations of reptile enthusiasts. Additionally, buying from reputable breeders increases the chances of acquiring healthy and well-adjusted geckos.
So, if you’re captivated by the beauty and charm of Standing’s Day Geckos, make sure to seek out passionate breeders who are committed to the welfare and conservation of these amazing creatures. Choosing captive-bred geckos not only allows you to enjoy the company of these fascinating reptiles but also promotes responsible reptile ownership.
FAQ
What is the Standing’s Day Gecko?
The Standing’s Day Gecko is a diurnal, omnivorous arboreal gecko native to southwest Madagascar.
What are the habitat requirements for Standing’s Day Geckos?
The minimum recommended enclosure size is 24”L x 24”W x 48”H, with heavily planted terrariums and enrichment items for climbing.
What lighting and UVB requirements do Standing’s Day Geckos have?
They require a basking area with temperatures of 90-95°F and access to bright light with a color temperature of 6500K.
What are the temperature and humidity requirements for Standing’s Day Geckos?
The basking area should be kept at 90-95°F, while the cool zone should be between 75-88°F. Humidity should be maintained between 40-75%.
What substrate options are suitable for Standing’s Day Geckos?
Suitable substrates include DIY tropical mix, such as organic topsoil and coconut fiber, as well as commercial options like Reptisoil and Eco Earth.
How should I decorate my Standing’s Day Gecko’s terrarium?
Provide hiding places, climbing materials, and live plants to create a visually interesting and enriched environment.
What do Standing’s Day Geckos eat?
They are omnivorous and readily feed on a variety of feeder insects, such as crickets and dubia roaches, as well as fruit diets.
Can I handle and interact with my Standing’s Day Gecko?
While they can become hand-tame, regular handling is not recommended as they are still wild animals that may become stressed.
Can I house multiple Standing’s Day Geckos together?
Breeding pairs can be kept together, but monitoring their behavior is important to prevent conflicts. For non-breeding purposes, it is best to keep only one or a group of females.
What are the lighting and heating options for Standing’s Day Geckos?
Fluorescent strip lighting and basking lights are common choices for smaller enclosures, while larger enclosures may benefit from mercury vapor bulbs. Humidity should also be considered when selecting lighting and heating options.
How do I breed Standing’s Day Geckos?
Breeding typically occurs between December and March. Females lay multiple clutches of 2 eggs each, which can be incubated for successful hatching.
How can I determine the sex of Standing’s Day Geckos?
Males have yellow femoral pores on their hind legs near the base of the tail, while females do not. Both males and females can display territorial behavior.
What is the lifespan and size of Standing’s Day Geckos?
They have an average lifespan of 15-20 years and reach adult sizes of 8-11 inches. Males tend to be larger than females.
What is the natural range and conservation status of Standing’s Day Geckos?
They are native to southwest Madagascar and are listed as a vulnerable species. Supporting captive breeding and avoiding wild-caught individuals is important for conservation efforts.
Are there breeders who work with Standing’s Day Geckos?
Yes, there are passionate breeders actively working with this species to ensure a steady supply of captive-bred geckos.