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Frog-eyed geckos (Teratoscincus scincus) are notable for their large fish-like scales and unusually big eyes. They are also known as wonder geckos. This species inhabits several countries in western Asia, ranging from northern Kazakhstan down to Iran and Pakistan. Being able to survive in harsh desert environments lends to their hardiness in captivity.

COLORATION

These geckos exhibit sandy colors, usually with a yellow background and rusty or brown markings along the length of the body. Due to the large scales that adorn the body, this genus is one-of-a-kind.

HOUSING

A 10 gallon tank can house one frog-eyed gecko up to adulthood, with 20 gallons being able to house two individuals. Males are territorial and should be housed separately in order to avoid aggressive behavior.

Frog-eyed geckos enjoy digging and should be provided a loose substrate. Sand, such as Repti-Sand, works well. So long as the animals are kept healthy and temperatures are correct, impaction is not a risk. Sand should be spot cleaned once a week. Due to their digging habits, it is important that any cage items placed on the sand are lightweight. Any heavy items, like slate or rocks, should be supported by the bottom of the enclosure instead of being placed on top of the sand.

Frog-eyed geckos are nocturnal. They will spend their days burrowed underground. They will readily dig under cork bark, upside down plant saucers, slate, and other similar items. Commercially available reptile hides also work well. These terrestrial geckos will climb on low rocks and other cage items while moving about at night. Again, just remember to stabilize any heavy items at the bottom of the enclosure.

TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY

This species thrives with an ambient temperature between 75-85F. A daytime hot spot of around 95F should also be provided and can be maintained with a heat pad or heat lamp. No special lighting is required. Frog-eyed geckos should be kept at ambient humidity ranging from 40-50%. Both temperature and humidity can be monitored with a thermometer/hygrometer.

A shallow water dish is not necessary with consistent misting, but can be provided. However, using a water dish won't replace the need for misting. This species should be heavily misted once or twice a week. Allow water droplets to accumulate on the enclosure walls from which the geckos can drink. Provide enough ventilation so that the enclosure dries out within a few hours.

SIZE

Frog-eyed geckos are one of the larger desert geckos available in captivity. They will reach up 5-6 inches as adults.

DIET

Frog-eyed geckos are insectivores. They can thrive on a staple of dubia roaches, crickets, or mealworms. Occasionally, other feeder insects (such as waxworms) can be offered as treats. A good rule of thumb for size is to only offer insects whose length does not exceed the space in between the gecko’s eyes. Generally, hatchling frog-eyed geckos should be fed insects measuring around ¼-inch, with subadults and adults being moved up to ½-inch insects. Feeder insects should be dusted with a vitamin/mineral supplement. An escape-proof feeding bowl will minimize the number of bugs that escape and hide.

SEX

Frog-eyed geckos are easily sexable, since males will have bulges at the base of their tail.

BREEDING

Typically, a brumation period in the winter is recommended to incite breeding. Females will lay up to four pairs of eggs over spring and summer. These can be (carefully) removed and incubated. Eggs will hatch within 60-80 days.

Links of Interest:

Reptiles Magazine Care Article - Reptiles Magazine article on the care of frog-eyed geckos.