One more?

[liamandnorma]

I'm picking up a bigger viv tomorrow for Norma.

The breeder I bought her from has another, a different morph but also female. I was thinking about picking her up too as it won't cost me much.

My girlfriend isn't sure, as I hear they are mostly alone in the wild? Is it strange to them to keep two females together. It's not only competition I'm worried about but more kind of whether it would make them uneasy etc.

On the other hand do they like it? Can it be good for them to be in a pair?

Thanks

Liam

 

[Russellm0704]

Lots of people here have had good luck with housing females together. They must be the same size and the new gecko should be quarantined for 90 days. Also, not all females get along and you will need a back up tank in case they don't get along

 

[tiedxupxinxknots]

It all depends on the leos, some don't get Along and Some do. For best results id use a 40 gal breeder but the smallest would be a 20 long 30x12x12 but I think that's barely enough for one...(also don't forget to quarintene all new animals for atleast 30days to prevent the spread of diseases)

 

[artes]

I personally feel geckos are happier in small colonies than they are by themselves. My males are alone, and my females are divided into two colonies - the females eat more and are much more active and seem a lot happier than the males. I'm considering letting one male in each colony and see if the males start to act happy too.

 

[alliegex]

I think the most simple answer is that it depends on the geckos. And, along that thought, it depends on your situation and whether you are able to take the time to ensure that, if housing more than one gecko together, they are doing well - both independently and as a pair/group.

I have geckos that live as pairs, in small groups, and on their own. My only known male lives alone in a 10 gallon tank. He does well on his own and I don't think he minds not having a companion. I have another baby gecko who lives on its own. It, too, seems to do alright on its own. But, then, I have three other tanks which include either pairs or trios. I have a baby tank with two little ones who came from the same pet store (I adopted them from someone who could not take care of them). They are very attached to one another. And, since they're too small to sex, they are alright living with each other. However, they may need to be separated at some point - either due to sex or behavioral issues. I have the space and supplies necessary should that become the case. I also have both a pair and trio of females. Both groups lived with one another even before being shipped to me from their breeder and they are all very close. I think they enjoy being with one another. And, while they're in large tanks, they are almost always snuggling with one another. I do have to keep an eye on them to ensure there is no bullying or aggression, but, thankfully, we have had none of that thus far. I also weigh them regularly and monitor their food intake so as to make sure that they are all getting what they need in order to be healthy and happy. If they ever need to be separated, I will do so. But, for now, it is apparent, in my opinion, that they are getting on well and thriving as individuals and a group.

As long as you're following proper quarantine procedures and are able to spend the time with each gecko to ensure they are healthy and accepting of their tank-mate, I think trying out a pairing is reasonable. But, I would not do so unless you had the time, means, and space to separate them if need be. Not all geckos want to have a companion. And, even if they do at one point, that may change in the future. Being conscious of that and being willing to take the necessary steps and precautions will be key - if you can do that, then go for it. But, don't jump into something without thinking through all of the potential consequences. Having a pair or trio of geckos living together can be rewarding, but only if they are doing well in such a grouping. And, remember, a gecko living alone is just as rewarding. Good luck with whatever you decide to do and please keep us posted on your decision and what may come in the future.

 

[liamandnorma]

Thanks guys.

I think for the moment I'll keep her on her own. As my first ever reptile I would hate it if I tried something out just because I thought it was cute or wanted some different colours in there only for it to backfire and have problems.

Inexperienced as I am I worry enough about her as it is! Ha. I still feel nervous if she doesn't catch some crickets or won't come out. Then the next day she'll eat 10 and I realise I'm being stupid and over protective. It's easy to forget that they are wild animals sometimes and don't need your 24hr attention!