Do Leopard Geckos Bite?
Leopard geckos are popular pet lizards and many potential gecko owners are curious to know: do leopard geckos bite?
The answer is yes, leopard geckos do bite. However, it is rare for them to do so and it is usually out of fear or territorialism. Rest assured, if a leopard gecko does bite — it does not hurt.
Why Might a Leopard Gecko Bite?
Leopard geckos may bite if they feel threatened or scared. Their bites are usually mild, and they are more likely to perform other defensive behaviors such as “clawing.”
A leopard gecko may also bite if it is overgrown and territorial. For this reason, it’s important to never house two adult leopard geckos together, as they will fight over territory.
Preventing a Leopard Gecko Bite
If you want to avoid being bitten by your leopard gecko, there are a few steps you can take:
- Always scoop up leopard geckos gently and avoid startling them.
- Provide a spacious tank so your gecko has enough room to run away from you if it feels scared.
- Handle your leopard gecko often so it gets used to your presence.
- Never house two adult leopard geckos together.
In conclusion, leopard geckos can bite in rare cases, but it is mostly done out of fear or territorialism. Taking the correct safety precautions and imprinting your gecko will help to prevent accidental bites.