How long do Tokay Geckos live?
Tokay geckos live 10-20 years in captivity and reach 10-14 inches (25-35 cm), with males larger and heavier than females, typically 150-250 grams.
What do Tokay Geckos eat?
They are insectivores and occasional small-vertebrate predators: crickets, roaches, superworms, and the rare small mouse or lizard for large adults. Feed adults every 2-3 days, dusting insects with calcium and a D3 multivitamin weekly. Crickets and roaches should be gut-loaded. Do not feed wild-caught insects (pesticide risk) or a fruit/vegetable diet.
Tokay Gecko enclosure setup
Adults need a tall terrarium of at least 20-30 gallons (roughly 24x18x36 inches / 60x45x90 cm) with strong vertical climbing branches and hides. Maintain 78-88°F (26-31°C) with a basking spot near 90°F (32°C) and a cooler zone; night drop to 72°F (22°C) is fine. Humidity should be 60-80%, achieved with daily misting and a water bowl. Provide a 5-6% T5 UVB; these are crepuscular but benefit from it. A secure lid is essential — tokays are strong escape artists.
Common mistakes with Tokay Geckos
Key errors: forcing handling (stress, defensive biting, dropped tail), keeping humidity too low (stuck sheds, eye problems), housing two together (cannibalism and fighting), and using a tank too small for an active 14-inch climber.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Trying to handle a defensive tokay — chronic stress, bites, and tail loss.
- Humidity below 50% — retained sheds and eye infections.
- Cohabiting — tokays are solitary and will fight or eat a tank mate.
- Under-sized enclosure — they are active and need real vertical space.