Lygodactylus Williamsi - in Captivity

In Captivity

These tiny lizards are generally housed in planted tropical vivariums or vertical (tall) terrariums. Provided with UV-B (mid spectrum) light and an (UV-A) basking spot, daytime temperatures of 75.2F (24.0C) to 86F (30.0C), and night-time lows of 64.4F (18.0C) to 71.6F (22.0C), they have proven to be fairly hardy. Humidity should range from 50% to 85%.

Misting twice a day provides water for drinking, but these geckos have also been seen frequently drinking from small cups or from bromeliad bases. They will eat a wide variety of insects including fruit flies, mini-mealworms, phoenix worms, small silkworms, roach nymphs, and crickets up to 1/4" in size. Daily supplementation of insects with Phosphorus free calcium and vitamin supplements is vital. Supplemented fruit puree or a commercial MRP (meal replacement powder, which is prepared with water) made for crested geckos or day geckos is readily accepted. Food offerings must be limited to avoid obesity, and feeding 3 times per week is sufficient when using MRP's.

Only one male should be housed per group, to avoid dangerous aggression. Multiple feeding stations will help to avoid excessive aggression between females.

These geckos breed readily in captivity, when they are satisfied with their environment and properly cared for. The eggs can be hatched in an incubator or in the enclosure. Incubated eggs hatch in about 80 days at 27 degrees Celsius. Eggs left in the enclosure will hatch in about 100 days. It takes longer because of the fluctuating temperatures at day and night. But the hatchlings are often stronger. Glued eggs should best be left inside the terrarium, because they could crack while removing them. But be aware of predators (like their parents!) when hatched, so gently remove them as soon as possible to a new environment. Best use relatively large enclosures like 15x30x30 cm in size, with 2-3 hatchlings per enclosure.

These small geckos are remarkable for their virtually fearless nature, and quickly tame. Handling is not recommended for such small animals, but they can be lured onto their keeper's hands with insect treats, and will remain active and behave naturally while being observed, once they are acclimated to captivity (often as quickly as one month after introduction to their enclosure).