How to Tell a Leopard Gecko’s Gender
Leopard geckos are a small species of reptile that make great pets. But for new owners, it can be difficult to tell the gender of your gecko. This article is here to help guide new owners on how to accurately detect the gender of their pet.
Male vs Female Leopard Geckos
Males and females have slightly different characteristics. In general, males are larger in size, have bigger heads and thicker tails, their bulges are larger, and they tend to be more colorful. Females, on the other hand, have slightly thinner tails and skinnier heads. Additionally, they tend to be less colourful than males.
Checking For A Hemipenal Bulge
One of the most reliable ways that you can determine the gender of a leopard gecko is by checking for a hemipenal bulge. A hemipenal bulge is a small bump that is located near the base of a gecko’s tail. This bump is only present in males. If your gecko has a hemipenal bulge, then you know that it is male.
Vent Sexing
Vent sexing is another way to determine the gender of your leopard gecko. Vent sexing is done by an expert and should only be done by someone with experience in this field. It involves gently squeezing the tail area of the gecko to expose the genitals. Male geckos have two distinct openings, whereas females only have one.
Other Signs To Look Out For:
- Behavior: Males are often more docile and less aggressive than females. Females, on the other hand, may tend to be more territorial and can be aggressive towards other geckos.
- Scent Glands: Males have two small scent glands located on the sides of the tail.
- Coloration: Males tend to be more vibrant and colorful, while females tend to be less vibrant and colorful.
Leopard geckos are a wonderful species of reptile to keep as pets. It is important to know their gender so that they can be taken care of properly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you will be able to accurately identify your leopard gecko’s gender.
