Zoolung Animals

Yeongdeungpo Dongtan

Leopard Gecko

The leopard gecko is a small lizard with a pattern resembling that of a leopard. It earned this name because it approaches its prey slowly and pounces from behind, much like a leopard. A distinctive feature that sets them apart from other lizards is that they have eyelids, allowing them to blink. They store fat in their tails for use when needed, which is why their tails tend to be plump.

Category

Order: Squamata Family: Gekkonidae
Habitat

Arid grasslands and desert regions
Diet

Insect

We're good friends

Dongtan

Guardian of Life Manji

Related Programs

Yeongdeungpo

Small TalkTalk with Zoolungman (Reptile Photo Studio)

Species

Reptiles (lizards)

This reptile is also known as the “leopard gecko.” Although it belongs to the gecko family, unlike other species, it lacks suction cups on its feet, which means it cannot climb walls.

Place of discovery

Central Asia and the Middle East

It is found primarily in arid high-altitude regions and areas near deserts, such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and northwestern India.

Habitat

Dry grasslands and rocky areas

They prefer dry grassland areas with plenty of rocks and crevices rather than sandy deserts, and rest in the shade beneath rocks during the day.

Diet

Carnivorous

They live entirely on insects. In the wild, they catch and eat crickets, beetles, spiders, and other insects to obtain moisture.

Action

Nocturnal and stores nutrients in its tail

They are primarily nocturnal and store fat in their tails as a reserve in case of food shortages. When threatened, they may sever their tails and flee.

Average size

20cm ~ 25cm

As an adult, it grows to about this size, with its tail accounting for nearly half its body length. It’s a compact size that fits perfectly in the palm of your hand.

Features

A gentle friend

They are gentle, easy to handle, and tend to be very affectionate toward people.

Lifespan

Ages 15–20

They are among the longest-living reptiles. With loving care at home, they are healthy animals that can live with their owners for over 20 years.