Getting a Leo & need to make it a home

[JeepFreak81]

Hello all. So I've been doing alot of reading and looking at pictures lately because i plan to buy a leopard gecko after the new year. I want to make sure i have a decent setup before i bring one home. I plan to use a 10 gallon tank initially....i will build something nicer down the road. After doing some reading i think i will use some type of tile as a substrate, probably slate. I work for lowes so that wont be a problem.

I was hoping somebody could give me some tips on what i need and how to set it up. I know i need a moist hide, a warm and cool side, etc. What about setting up a rheostat, lighting, etc?

Thanks in advance for any help

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[marauderhex]

We use 24x24x12" enclosures. A warm side in the mid 90s, cool side is still above ambient. For a moist hide, I recommend getting a cheap tupperware dish and cutting a corner out of the lid. Fill it with sphagnum moss and moisten every few days, or when you notice it's getting dry. I recommend building a solid enclosure out of opaque plexiglass or other plastic as it will be easier to control things like humidity and temp, compared to a screen topped terrarium. We use paper towels as substrate, for ease of changing, sanitation, etc. You should also have some things for the leo to climb/play around on. Some might never use these, but I see it as better to have and it not be used than to have a super empty tank and nothing enriching to do. For heating we use a UTH on a rheostat for all of our enclosures. Since they are nocturnal, leos don't need special lighting, but it's nice to give them a light cycle, so something as simple as leaving the window blinds open works for lighting.