In case anyone is interested, if you are completely new to leo's.
First thing, get your tank set up and up to temp on both ends.
If your leo is coming from a breeder who uses plastic breeding tubs, and
his/her new home is a glass terrarium, cover all 4 walls with cardboard.
Make sure there is plenty of water and your humid hide is moist.
When you receive your little leo, open the box SLOWLY, dim the lights,
and remove the deli cup. Put the deli cup in the floor of your leo's new home and gently pry off the lid and remove it. Allow your leo to come out and explore on his/her own. Do not disturb, touch, or attempt to feed for 2 days.
On the third day, you can start removing the wall covers, one at a time, each day until they are gone. Also on the 3rd day, you should start feeding.
Only a few items at first. If your leo shows interest, and readily eats them, go ahead and feed as much as they want want.
Avoid getting in the habit of "hand feeding". You may spoil your leo, and it may loose the desire (or need) for hunting and finding it's own prey.
Move slowly around your leo, and let him/her see your hand inside the cage every day. Resist the temptation to pet your leo until they are ready. You will know when you have earned your leo's trust when he licks and climbs on your hand. You can tempt him to do this by placing a mealworm or waxworm in the palm of your hand. Doing this once or twice is sufficient for a friendly first contact. Dont get in the habit of it though.
Soon, your leo will be able to associate you with good things! like yummy crickets and mealies!! :main_yes:
When this happens, they will be happy indeed to see you at dinner time!
This is how I've been doing it over the years and it really helps to cut down or even eliminate stress. Some breeders supply instructions which may be simular to the above, some dont!!
Also, leo's dont always like to follow the "rules"! :main_no:
Sometimes you get a really cranky little guy who requires a little extra care.
And dont be too suprised if your leo doesnt follow the "always poops in the same spot" rule!!! :main_laugh:
I think leo's are the cutest, neatest reptile pet by far. Once you have earned their trust, you will have a nice little friend!
Best of luck with your new leopard gecko. :main_yes:
First thing, get your tank set up and up to temp on both ends.
If your leo is coming from a breeder who uses plastic breeding tubs, and
his/her new home is a glass terrarium, cover all 4 walls with cardboard.
Make sure there is plenty of water and your humid hide is moist.
When you receive your little leo, open the box SLOWLY, dim the lights,
and remove the deli cup. Put the deli cup in the floor of your leo's new home and gently pry off the lid and remove it. Allow your leo to come out and explore on his/her own. Do not disturb, touch, or attempt to feed for 2 days.
On the third day, you can start removing the wall covers, one at a time, each day until they are gone. Also on the 3rd day, you should start feeding.
Only a few items at first. If your leo shows interest, and readily eats them, go ahead and feed as much as they want want.
Avoid getting in the habit of "hand feeding". You may spoil your leo, and it may loose the desire (or need) for hunting and finding it's own prey.
Move slowly around your leo, and let him/her see your hand inside the cage every day. Resist the temptation to pet your leo until they are ready. You will know when you have earned your leo's trust when he licks and climbs on your hand. You can tempt him to do this by placing a mealworm or waxworm in the palm of your hand. Doing this once or twice is sufficient for a friendly first contact. Dont get in the habit of it though.
Soon, your leo will be able to associate you with good things! like yummy crickets and mealies!! :main_yes:
When this happens, they will be happy indeed to see you at dinner time!
This is how I've been doing it over the years and it really helps to cut down or even eliminate stress. Some breeders supply instructions which may be simular to the above, some dont!!
Also, leo's dont always like to follow the "rules"! :main_no:
Sometimes you get a really cranky little guy who requires a little extra care.
And dont be too suprised if your leo doesnt follow the "always poops in the same spot" rule!!! :main_laugh:
I think leo's are the cutest, neatest reptile pet by far. Once you have earned their trust, you will have a nice little friend!
Best of luck with your new leopard gecko. :main_yes:
