Banded gecko can be found in the western U.S. and northern Mexico, and make good pets. Everything you need to know about them is contained in this article.

Banded gecko - Facts

1. Description:

   The banded gecko, or Coleonyx variegates, is a small nocturnal lizard found in the western U.S. and northern Mexico.

2. Varieties:

   There are six to eight subspecies of the banded gecko.

3. History:

   Banded geckos, like other reptiles, are believed to have evolved from dinosaurs.

4. Physical Traits:

   Banded geckos grow to about 4-6 inches in length. They generally have pale pink skin with brown bands. These bands change to spots as the gecko ages. Banded geckos have vertical pupils and moveable eyelids.

5. Other Defining Characteristics:

   Banded geckos have smooth skin and no pads on their slim toes.

6. Habitat:

   The banded gecko is indigenous to the deserts of southeastern California, southern Nevada, and south and western Arizona, as well as parts of southwestern New Mexico, southwestern Utah, northern Mexico, and Baja California. The banded gecko prefers an environment of oak and pinyon-juniper growth.

Banded gecko - Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Banded geckos eat spiders, insects, and baby scorpions. Generally speaking, banded geckos usually breed well in captivity.

2. Liabilities:

   You should not house more than one male banded gecko together in a tank, as male banded geckos are territorial and fighting may result.

3. Health Issues:

   Banded geckos may be infected with parasites and should be checked by a herpetological vet.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   Banded geckos are nocturnal, and therefore do not require any specific light source. You may wish to invest in an incandescent bulb that simulates moonlight to encourage activity.

5. Reaction to Children and other Pets:

   As with any reptile, take care to supervise the animal around children and other pets.

6. Special Household Needs:

   Due to the risk of salmonella, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommend that households with children under the age of 5 or anyone with an immune system deficiency should not own any type of reptiles or amphibians.

Banded gecko - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   Look for a banded gecko with bright, clear eyes. He should be active and alert, with well-rounded limbs.

2. Supplies:

   Banded geckos do not require a great deal of space, so a small tank is sufficient for a colony of two to three females and one male. Some type of soft substrate, such as newspaper or paper towels will be needed. The banded geckos should have hiding areas in the tank, preferably one in a cool spot and another in a warm spot. In addition to a heater, you may need a hygrometer setup to ensure proper humidity. You will also need food items such as live crickets and small insects.

3. Expense:

   A banded gecko will probably cost around $25 -- 50. Plan to spend about that same amount on the habitat for your banded gecko.