Phelsumas Or Day Geckos: Care And Characteristics
The Phelsumas or diurnal geckos are a genus of reptiles belonging to the family Gekkonidae. Due to their incomparable beauty and gentle temperament, these animals have carved a niche for themselves in the exotic pet market in recent years, but are they a good companion animal?
Unfortunately, there are several notes and make reservations recommending this reptile as a pet because e stamos to a fragile, nervous and very specific requirements animal. Read on if you want to know more about the beautiful day geckos.
Initial considerations
First of all, it is necessary to emphasize that all species of the genus Phelsuma are included in appendix II of CITES, an international convention on the sale of endangered living beings in their natural environment. This means that you have to be very careful when purchasing a specimen and make sure that it comes from a captive breeder.
Species such as Phelsuma madagascariensis or Phelsuma laticauda are in good condition in their natural environment. On the other hand, other species such as Phelsuma antanosy are classified, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as critically endangered animals.
Beyond these reports, it is essential to know that there are multiple species of Phelsumas in the exotic pet market. These differ in size and small environmental variables, but we are going to frame their care and characteristics in the most common variety: Phelsuma madagascariensis.
Day gecko care
As their name suggests, these geckos are generally active during the day. This differentiates them from many other exotic species, since they can be enjoyed much more assiduously. Still, these daytime habits carry a series of special requirements.
In general, we can summarize the basic care of day geckos in the following points:
- Terrarium size: it depends a lot on the species, but in general, a glass terrarium 60 centimeters high by 30 centimeters wide and long is usually enough for one specimen — they are climbing animals. Keep in mind that these reptiles can reach more than 20 centimeters in length.
- Environmental enrichment: these animals require multiple branches and plants in the terrarium. They are tropical reptiles, and also, a little nervous. Therefore, the presence of multiple natural refuges is especially necessary for the genus Phelsuma.
- Temperature: the temperature should range between 27-31 degrees during the day, with a drop of 5 degrees at night. This variation can be achieved with the use of heating bulbs and heating blankets.
- Humidity: this parameter must be between 60-80% relative humidity. This is achieved by spraying the terrarium with water two or three times a day, or by using an automatic irrigation system.
Special considerations
In general, all of these given parameters are quite common for various alien species. Still, the day gecko has various needs that other reptiles do not. We will tell you about them below.
First, all species of this genus need a UV light source outside the terrarium to illuminate the facility during the day. Being diurnal animals, they require the sun’s rays for various metabolic processes. A fluorescent tube that emits a high level of UVA rays is recommended.
On the other hand, the diet of these reptiles is also quite specific. Their main diet is based on insects – they are still predators – but they also eat nectars and fruit juices. There are baby foods prepared for them in specialized stores and, without a doubt, these supplements are always the best option.
Lastly, it is essential to note that handling can seriously injure these animals. The skin of these reptiles is extremely delicate and any grip or violent movement can expose wounds.
A delicate pet
As we have seen in these lines, the genus Phelsuma is not recommended for someone who has just discovered the world of exotic pets. Their requirements are very specific, and therefore, to consider acquiring a specimen you must have some prior experience.
Even so, given the necessary care, this wonderful reptile can stay with you for more than 15 years. Of course, its daytime activity and fascinating appearance make this animal the jewel of anyone passionate about the world of terrariums.
