Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a charming, low-maintenance, and fascinating little companion, then the Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris) might just be the perfect fit for you. These tiny, parthenogenetic marvels are not only captivating to watch but also incredibly unique in the reptile world. Let’s find out if these petite geckos deserve a place in your home!

Ease of Handling: 1/5

Mourning Geckos are as small as they are speedy, which makes handling them a bit of a challenge. These geckos typically grow to around 3–4 inches in length, making them delicate and easy to accidentally harm. While they aren’t aggressive and rarely bite, they are notorious for their quick, jittery movements. Because of their fragile nature and their tendency to dash away when startled, we recommend Mourning Geckos as a hands-off pet.

That being said, they’re an absolute joy to observe. Their social behaviors, chirps, and interactions with each other in group setups make them endlessly entertaining. If you’re looking for a pet to handle regularly, a Leopard Gecko or Crested Gecko might be a better choice. But if you’re happy to enjoy their antics from the other side of the glass, Mourning Geckos are perfect.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

When it comes to care, Mourning Geckos are a dream come true for anyone seeking a low-maintenance pet. These geckos thrive in bioactive vivariums with live plants, natural substrates, and plenty of climbing surfaces. Here are the key aspects of their care:

• Enclosure Size: A 10-gallon vertical tank can house a small group of Mourning Geckos, but a larger setup is always better for their enrichment.
• Temperature and Humidity: These geckos prefer temperatures between 75–85°F and humidity levels of 60–80%. Providing a temperature gradient with a heat source is recommended, although they don’t require as much heat as many other reptiles.
• Diet: Mourning Geckos are omnivorous and thrive on a diet of commercially available gecko diet powders (like Pangea or Repashy) and live insects like fruit flies and pinhead crickets. Their small size makes them perfect candidates for tiny prey, but their diet should still be varied to keep them healthy.

One thing to note is that Mourning Geckos are communal animals. They do best when kept in small groups, which mimic their natural social behaviors. However, overcrowding can lead to stress, so monitoring group dynamics is essential.

Their bioactive setups, once established, require minimal cleaning since microfauna like springtails and isopods help break down waste. This makes them an excellent choice for reptile enthusiasts who love naturalistic enclosures.

Health and Durability: 4/5

Mourning Geckos are hardy little creatures. Thanks to their adaptability and resilience, they’re a great choice for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike. Unlike some other reptiles, they rarely experience stress-related health issues as long as their environmental needs are met.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mourning Geckos is their ability to reproduce without a mate. They are parthenogenetic, meaning all individuals are female and can lay fertile eggs without the need for males. This unique trait ensures their populations remain robust, but it also means that you’ll need to be prepared for potential hatchlings if you keep them in optimal conditions.

Common health concerns include shedding issues, which are often caused by low humidity, and injuries from tankmates or improper handling. As with any pet, regular observation is key to catching potential problems early.

Availability: 4/5

Mourning Geckos are widely available and gaining popularity in the reptile hobby. You can find them through reptile expos, breeders, and even online retailers. Their small size and unique reproductive abilities make them relatively easy to breed, which keeps their availability consistent.

One thing we love about these geckos is how accessible they are for both beginners and seasoned keepers. If you’re looking to purchase a Mourning Gecko, try to find a reputable breeder or seller who provides healthy, captive-bred individuals. Avoid wild-caught geckos whenever possible, as they may carry parasites and often have a harder time adjusting to captivity.

Initial Cost: 5/5

Mourning Geckos are one of the most affordable reptiles you can add to your collection. Individual geckos typically cost between $20–$50, depending on their age and where you purchase them. However, since they are social animals, most keepers prefer to start with at least two or three, which increases the upfront cost slightly.

The real investment comes in setting up their enclosure. A bioactive vivarium with live plants, lighting, heating, and substrate can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the quality of materials you choose. Thankfully, once the enclosure is established, the ongoing costs for food and maintenance are minimal.

Final Thoughts: 3.6/5

So, is the Mourning Gecko the ideal pet for you? If you’re looking for a fascinating, low-maintenance reptile that thrives in a beautifully designed enclosure and doesn’t require frequent handling, then absolutely! Mourning Geckos are perfect for hobbyists who love observing social behaviors and creating stunning naturalistic setups. They’re affordable, resilient, and endlessly entertaining.

However, if you’re searching for a pet you can handle and interact with directly, you might find their skittish nature less appealing. Mourning Geckos are best suited to hands-off keepers who appreciate their unique charm from a distance.

Ultimately, these petite geckos bring plenty of personality and intrigue to any collection. Their chirps, acrobatics, and ability to reproduce without mates make them one of the most fascinating reptiles in the hobby. If you’re ready to take the plunge, you’ll be rewarded with a tiny but mighty addition to your reptile family.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you! 🦎