How Do Leopard Geckos Shed Off Dead Skin?
Leopard geckos are one of the most popular reptile pets in the world, and they are known for their calm nature, their vibrant colors and their easy care. Many reptile owners want to know if and how their leopard gecko will shed, and the answer is, yes, they do shed their skin.
Reasons Why Leopard Geckos Shed?
Leopard geckos shed in order to:
- Grow: The process of shedding helps the gecko to acquire a new skin size and grow.
- Get rid of any parasites: Shedding helps geckos to get rid of any possible parasites present in their skin.
- Replace their spurs and toes: Lizards like the leopard gecko shed their spurs and toes which will be replaced by new ones.
- Remove unsightly patches: Shedding helps to get rid of any patches of skin that are ugly or don’t match the gecko’s beautiful coloration.
Recognizing the Shedding Process
The gecko’s new skin begins to form under the old skin. Leopard geckos will appear darker in color and the skin will be opaque, almost “cloudy” in appearance. It can take several days for the entire process to be completed.
During this time, you may see them rub against substrate or other objects in order to break the old skin. Many leopard geckos will eat the shed skin, which is entirely normal.
Tips to Help the Process Go Smoothly
- Provide enough humidity: Leopard geckos lose moisture quickly and need a moist environment. Provide a humid hide box in which your pet can recover from the shedding process.
- Offer calcium: Offering calcium with D3 will help to ensure your gecko has the necessary nutrients for growing new skin.
- Cleaning: Shed skin can accumulate dirt and bacteria, as well as become lodged in places that are hard for the gecko to reach on its own, so it’s a good idea to check under rocks and crevices, and clean the areas where shedding may occur.
With proper care and attention to the shedding process, leopard geckos can enjoy a long, healthy life!
