Editing Mourning Gecko Care

{{Animal infobox
|name=Mourning Gecko
|image=[[File:Lepidodactylus lugubris 150047051.jpg|400px]]
|scientificName=''Lepidodactylus lugubris''
|geoDist=Southeast Asia
|discovered=1836 (Duméril & Bibron)
|size=2.7-3.7 inches (7-9.5 cm)
|behavior=
*Nocturnal
*Semi-arboreal
*Social
|careLevel=Easy
|minEnclosure=12"x12"x18" (30x30x45cm)
|substrate=''
*Tropical mix
*[[ABG mix]]
|temperature=''
*Day: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
*Night: No lower than 70°F (21°C)
|humidity=60-80%
|food=''''
*Commercial gecko diet (I.e., Pangea)
*Small crickets
*Flightless fruit flies
*Mealworms
|supplements=Calcium and multivitamin powders
}}
=== '''<big>Mourning Gecko (''Lepidodactylus lugubris'')</big>''' ===

==== Description ====
The Mourning Gecko (''Lepidodactylus lugubris'') is a small, nocturnal gecko that has garnered popularity in the vivarium hobby due to its unique reproductive strategy of parthenogenesis, where females reproduce without the need for males. This species is found in a wide range of tropical and subtropical regions around the world, indicating its remarkable adaptability.

Mourning Geckos are social creatures that can be kept in groups, offering fascinating observations of their interactions. They have a gentle nature, making them suitable for shared single-species vivariums.

==== Appearance ====
Mourning Geckos are typically 2.7-3.7 inches (7-9.5 cm) in length, with smooth, brownish to beige skin that helps them blend into their surroundings. Their bodies are slender, and their tails aid in their excellent climbing abilities.

==== Behavior ====
Mourning geckos are nocturnal, emerging at night to feed. They are highly social and can often be seen interacting with one another in their habitat. Mourning Geckos communicate through body language and soft chirping sounds, which can be a delightful aspect of their care for enthusiasts.

== Care ==
Mourning Geckos are relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced reptile enthusiasts. They thrive in environments that mimic their natural tropical habitat, with adequate humidity and foliage for hiding.

Creating a suitable vivarium for Mourning Geckos involves ensuring proper temperature, humidity, and environmental enrichment to simulate their natural habitat - and perhaps most importantly, preventing escapes through small holes and gaps in the enclosure.

=== Enclosure ===
A minimum enclosure size of 12"x12"x18" (30x30x45cm) is suitable for a small group of Mourning Geckos, as they are social animals and benefit from communal living.

Mourning gecko keepers must take special precautions to prevent escapes through small gaps and holes in the enclosure.

=== Features ===
Enclosures should include plenty of vertical space for climbing, as well as hiding spots and live foliage to provide shelter and enrichment. A tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent escapes.
[[File:Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) Lennart Hudel.jpg|alt=Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) Lennart Hudel|left|thumb|Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) [https://inaturalist.org/observations/21699127 Lennart Hudel]]]

=== Substrate ===
A chunky, tropical mixture which provides both moisture retention and drainage is recommended. [[ABG mix]] or similar tropical substrates that support a humid environment while preventing the growth of mold and bacteria are ideal.

=== Lighting ===
While Mourning Geckos do not require specialized lighting for calcium metabolism, a low-level UVB light (i.e., 5% UVB) can benefit overall health, metabolism, and well-being. Lighting should mimic natural day-night cycles to support their nocturnal nature. If UVB is not used, be sure to provide dietary Vitamin D3 through commercial gecko diet, or vitamin-dusted feeders.

=== Temperature ===
The ideal temperature range during the day is 75-85°F (24-29°C), with a slight drop to no lower than 70°F (21°C) at night. Use a digital thermometer to monitor temperatures within the enclosure.

=== Humidity ===
Maintain humidity levels between 60-80% through regular misting. Automated misting systems or manual misting can achieve this, with the goal of simulating the moist environment of their natural habitat.

=== Feeding ===
Mourning Geckos should be fed a complete commercial gecko diet, or a diet of small crickets, flightless fruit flies, and occasionally mealworms. Food items should be dusted with a complete calcium supplement, (i.e., Repashy Calcium Plus) that contains Vitamin A (or a variety of carotenoids) and Vitamin D3, regularly along with a multivitamin supplement bi-weekly to ensure a balanced diet.
[[File:Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) Donald Davesne.jpg|alt=Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) Donald Davesne|thumb|Mourning Gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (c) [https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/186014797 Donald Davesne]]]

=== Supplementation ===
Complete calcium and multivitamin supplements are crucial for the health of Mourning Geckos, especially due to their unique reproductive strategy. Ensure that feeder insects are properly supplemented to provide a balanced diet.


[[Category:Care Guides]]

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