Rough Knob-Tailed Gecko

• Family: Gekkonidae
• Adult Size: 3 to 5 inches
• Range: Northern Australia
• Habitat: Dry, rocky deserts
• Captive Lifespan: 8 to 12 Years
• Dangerous:
• Care Level: Intermediate

Overview

Its rough skin texture and cute little tail have made it a favorite by looks alone, but the rough knob-tailed gecko is for the advanced gecko keeper. Rough knob-tailed geckos do not appreciate being handled. Rough knob-tailed geckos typically hiss whenever a hand approaches too closely, and stress out easily with too much commotion near them. This is an ‘enjoy-from-a-distance’ kind of pet herp.

Set-up for the rough knob-tailed gecko is a dry, desert-style habitat with lots of flat rocks and hollow bark to conceal themselves beneath. Rough knob-tailed geckos hunt for insect prey at night, though emerging at twilight to bask on warm ground is a common strategy in preparation for foraging. Offer a variety of bugs shortly after the light fades to coincide with their most active period.

Mist the rough knob-tailed geckos cage close to dusk so they can drink the droplets. A very small water bowl can also be added to the cage once per week for just a day to be sure they have access to fresh standing water. One small sheltered area in the cage should also be misted weekly so one small retreat offers a more humid alcove of moisture.

For more information, read our detailed rough knob-tailed gecko care sheet.

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