Definition of African fat-tailed gecko

African Fat-tailed Gecko
Hemitheconyx Caudicinctus

General info:
The African fat-tail geckos can grow in length up to 8" and are truly some of the most "personable" reptiles available today. Oddly enough, the gecko's fat tail enables it to store extra nutrition for "lean times", and is used as a "false head" in case a predator attacks. This defense tactic allows the gecko an escape option and it can rejuvenate the tail!
Temperature/Humidity:
Ideal daytime temperature for African fat-tailed geckos should range between 75º and 85º. Additionally, a basking area should be used on one end of the enclosure to maintain a local temperature of 90-100º. This can be accomplished with an undertank heat pad. Nighttime temperature should remain between 65º and 70º. The humidity for African fat-tails should be mixed; a dry habitat with a moist retreat. This is easy to maintain by moistening peat moss and placing in the hiding areas within the enclosure.
Lighting:
All fat-tails benefit from ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. The use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods.
Feeding/Watering:
African fat-tails do well on a diet consisting of a variety of vitamin/calcium dusted insects such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. A shallow water bowl should be provided and changed daily. Adult fat-tails should be fed 3-4 times per week, some juveniles can be fed twice daily during their growing period.
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