Reptile · Gecko
Giant leaf-tailed gecko care guide
Uroplatus fimbriatus
The giant leaf-tailed gecko is a advanced-level gecko from Eastern Madagascar. Adults reach 25–33 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Needs thick vertical perches and broad leaves; keep under 28°C.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 90 cm
- Temp 22–27°C, cooler nights
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a giant leaf-tailed gecko cost in Canada?
Giant leaf-tailed gecko quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 25–33 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Eastern Madagascar
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 90 cm (24 × 18 × 35 in, ≈ 64 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–27°C, cooler nights
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – roaches, crickets, locusts
- Bioactive style
- Tropical arboreal
Giant leaf-tailed gecko enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 90 cm (24 × 18 × 35 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a tropical arboreal bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls5 cm
Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.
Temperature: 22–27°C, cooler nights. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a giant leaf-tailed gecko eat?
Insectivore – roaches, crickets, locusts. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Gapes and screams when stressed; handle only when necessary.
Health watch: Heat stress, dehydration and parasites in imports.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
- Check temperatures at perch height.
Weekly
- Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
- Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
- Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Check branches and mounts are still secure.
- Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.
Yearly
- Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.
Recommended for a giant leaf-tailed gecko bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 90 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 5 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Magnolia Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Backgrounds
Turns the back wall into climbing space
Cork Bark Tubes
A “tree trunk” to climb and hide in
Yamuna Spiderwood
Arboreal species prefer diagonal and horizontal perches
Cork Branches
More climbing routes
Giant leaf-tailed gecko FAQ
Is the giant leaf-tailed gecko good for beginners?
The giant leaf-tailed gecko is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Gapes and screams when stressed; handle only when necessary.
What size enclosure does a giant leaf-tailed gecko need?
At least 60 × 45 × 90 cm (about 24 × 18 × 35 inches, roughly 64 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a giant leaf-tailed gecko cost in Canada?
Typically $400–1000 CAD to buy, about $770–1350 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–400 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a giant leaf-tailed gecko need?
Temperature: 22–27°C, cooler nights. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a giant leaf-tailed gecko eat?
Insectivore – roaches, crickets, locusts. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.