Reptile · Gecko
Helmeted gecko care guide
Tarentola chazaliae
The helmeted gecko is a intermediate-level gecko from Atlantic coast of Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania. Adults reach 8–10 cm and live 8–10 years in captivity. Pairs possible. Never two males.
- Enclosure 45 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 28–32°C
- Humidity 30–40%
How much does a helmeted gecko cost in Canada?
Helmeted gecko quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 8–10 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–10 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Atlantic coast of Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania
- Minimum enclosure
- 45 × 45 × 30 cm (18 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 16 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–32°C
- Humidity
- 30–40%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Helmeted gecko enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 45 × 45 × 30 cm (18 × 18 × 12 inches). Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix12 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: Warm 28–32°C. Humidity: 30–40%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a helmeted gecko eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Small and delicate; minimal handling.
Health watch: Dehydration and stuck shed.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a helmeted gecko bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 45 × 30 cm).
Helmeted gecko FAQ
Is the helmeted gecko good for beginners?
The helmeted gecko is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Small and delicate; minimal handling.
What size enclosure does a helmeted gecko need?
At least 45 × 45 × 30 cm (about 18 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 16 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a helmeted gecko cost in Canada?
Typically $150–350 CAD to buy, about $370–690 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a helmeted gecko need?
Temperature: Warm 28–32°C. Humidity: 30–40%.
What does a helmeted gecko eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. 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.