How Long Do Geckos Live as Pets?
Geckos are one of the most popular pet lizards. They come in a wide variety of brilliant colors and are relatively easy to care for. But how long do they generally live as pets?
Gecko Lifespan
The typical lifespan of a gecko in the wild is around 10 years. However, the proper care of a pet gecko can extend its life even further. With proper nutrition, temperature, humidity, and other environment factors, a gecko can live up to 20 years or even longer.
Factors that Affect Lifespan
The primary factor in how long a gecko will live as a pet is its care. Other factors that can influence a gecko’s lifespan include:
- Housing: Geckos need to live in the right size habitat that can host their preferred temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions.
- Diet: Geckos need the right kind of food with lots of variety to provide proper nutrition.
- Illness: A stressed or sick gecko has a diminished lifespan. Stress can be caused by frequent interaction, over-handling, or molting.
- Species: Different species of gecko have different lifespans. For example, the fat-tailed gecko can live for 16 to 18 years and the crested gecko can live for 15 to 20 years.
Conclusion
Overall, a gecko can live for up to 20 years in captivity with proper care. However, the average lifespan of a pet gecko can range from 8 to 10 years. With the right care and attention, a gecko as a pet can ensure years of enjoyment and friendship.
