Defining Characteristics:

1. Uncommon Madagascar Gecko
2. Climbers
3. Active At Night
4. Unique Pattern

Name: Paroedura oviceps is also known as the Nosy Be Ground Gecko. They are found on Nosy Be, an island off Madagascar's northwestern coast.

Recommended Enclosure Size: These geckos are adept climbers and will enjoy some height. A single or pair can be kept in a 12x12x12 enclosure, although additional space is welcome for these active, nocturnal geckos. Nosy Be Ground Geckos have been successfully kept as pairs or trios. A coco-fiber based substrate works well for this species. Both terrestrial hides and climbing material is recommended. Cork bark works especially well to provide both of these features.

Temperature: Keep Nosy Be Ground Geckos between 75-80 F. If kept cooler, provide a basking spot of around 85 F. Temperature should be monitored with a digital thermometer. Night temperatures should not fall below 68 F. UVB light is not required for this species, but it is not a harmful addition.

Humidity: Keep humidity for Nosy Be Ground Geckos between 55-70%. Maintaining elevated humidity as well as a well-ventilated enclosure is recommended. Plants can be added to help stabilize higher humidity as well as provide humid microclimates. Ambient humidity should be monitored with a digital hygrometer. Nosy Be Ground Geckos should be misted daily to provide dew on enclosure walls and cage items from which they can drink. A water dish can be provided but is not necessary with regular misting; a water dish will not replace the need to regularly mist the enclosure.

Size: Adult Nosy Be Ground Geckos reach around 4-5 inches from head to tail.

Age: Nosy Be Ground Geckos are at least 2 months old when sold by Josh’s Frogs, at which time they are well established. It is estimated that these geckos live for around 8-10 years in captivity.

Feeding: Juvenile Nosy Be Ground Geckos sold by Josh’s Frogs are fed a staple of ¼-inch crickets and dubia roaches. Adults should be fed a staple of ½-inch crickets and dubia roaches, but can also be offered black soldier fly larvae and occasional treats like waxworms or butterworms. All feeder insects should be gutloaded and dusted with vitamin/mineral supplements, and can be offered in a food dish.

Sexing: Nosy Be Ground Gecko males can be easily identified by the hemipenal bulge at the base of their tail. Females lack this feature.

Color/Pattern: While this species lacks spectacular color, their unique pattern grants them amazing camouflage against bark and dark rocks. Nosy Be Ground Geckos are beige to brown with dark brown to black pattern in the form of blotches, along with dark stripes down their tail.

Social Behavior: While a male can be housed with one or two females. Males are territorial and should not be housed together.

Breeding: During the breeding season, Nosy Be Ground Gecko females lay a pair of eggs every 3-4 weeks. Eggs are buried in substrate.

Natural Range: As their name suggests, these Ground Geckos are found on Nosy Be, an island off of Madagascar.

History in the Hobby: Compared to other Madagascar Ground Geckos, Nosy Be Ground Geckos are very uncommon in the hobby.

Still not sure if the Nosy Be Ground Gecko from Josh's Frogs is the right pet for you? Read the reviews below and see what other customers are saying!