Caring for gravid leopard geckos involves understanding their specific needs during this critical period. This article covers diagnosing gravidity, setting up an appropriate lay box, and provides comprehensive care tips to ensure the health and safety of both the gravid gecko and her future offspring.

Understanding Gravid Geckos

Leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are oviparous, laying clutches of eggs that, if fertile, require incubation outside the mother's body. A gravid female will show signs of carrying eggs, such as a bulging abdomen and changes in behavior. Lethargy and a decreased appetite are common symptoms. When a female is determined to gravid, it's essential to provide a stress-free environment with optimal conditions for egg laying.

Diagnosing a Gravid Leopard Geckos

Identifying a gravid leopard gecko early is crucial for providing the necessary care. Several diagnostic tools and observations can help confirm gravidity:

1. Visual Inspection: A gravid female typically exhibits a bulging abdomen due to the developing eggs. You may also notice her weight increase.

2. Behavioral Changes: Gravid geckos may show changes in behavior, such as increased digging or restlessness, as they seek a suitable nesting site. They may also generally appear lethargic.

3. Palpation: A gentle palpation by a veterinarian can feel the eggs within the abdomen. This method should only be performed by a professional to avoid harming the gecko or the eggs.

4. Radiographs and/or Ultrasound: This is a non-invasive way to confirm whether a gecko is gravid or not, additionally it can be helpful to assess the health and development of the eggs. These tests can be performed by one of the experienced veterinarians at YVC.

The Importance of a Lay Box

A lay box offers a secure, humid environment for the gecko to lay her eggs. It mimics the natural nesting sites gravid geckos seek out, encouraging natural behaviors and reducing stress. The lay box should be introduced as soon as you notice signs of gravidity.

Setting Up the Lay Box

1. Choose the Right Container: Use a container large enough for the gecko to move around comfortably, but not so large that it feels exposed. A plastic storage box with a lid is a great, economical option, as it retains humidity well and easily acquired. There are also fancier, stylized lay boxes that can be found online.

2. Substrate: The lay box should be filled with a moist substrate that the gecko can dig into. The ideal option is sphagnum moss, other options include coconut coir, vermiculite, or a mixture of these. The substrate should be damp but not waterlogged, to maintain high humidity without soaking the eggs.

3. Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 70-80% within the lay box. This can be achieved by misting the substrate as needed and ensuring the box is well-sealed. A hygrometer, while not necessary, can help monitor humidity levels.

4. Temperature: Keep the lay box at the same temperature range as the gecko's enclosure, ideally between 77-86°F. Avoid placing the lay box directly under heat lamps, as this can dry out the substrate too quickly.

5. Placement: Position the lay box in a quiet, secure part of the enclosure where the gecko feels safe. Providing multiple hiding spots within the enclosure, including the lay box, encourages natural behavior.

6. After Egg Laying: Once the gecko has laid her eggs, if fertile and desired, carefully remove them to an incubator set at the appropriate temperature and humidity for your species. Leopard gecko eggs typically incubate at 78-92°F with a relative humidity of 75-100%.
   

Additional Recommendations for Gravid Gecko Care

Besides providing a lay box, there are other essential aspects of care for gravid leopard geckos:

1. Nutrition: In can be helpful to calcium and vitamin supplementation during gravidity to support egg development. Offer a variety of gut-loaded insects to meet her nutritional needs on her normal schedule. Do not be surprised if her appetite decreases some. If it ceases entirely for an extended period of time though, this may be a sign that something may be wrong.

2. Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water. Dehydration is a risk during a gravid state, especially in higher temperatures.

3. Handling: Minimize handling to reduce stress on the gravid gecko. If handling is necessary, do so gently and briefly.

4. Enclosure Maintenance: Maintain cleanliness in the enclosure to prevent infections. Remove uneaten food promptly and keep the substrate clean and dry, except in the lay box.

5. Post-Laying Care: After laying, the female may appear thinner and less active. Ensure she has a quiet, comfortable environment to recover. Monitor her for any signs of distress or health issues, and continue providing enhanced nutrition to help her regain her strength.

6. Veterinary Care: Schedule a post-laying check-up with one of our experienced veterinarians at YVC to ensure the female is recovering properly and to assess her overall health.
   

Conclusion

Once a female gecko is determined to be carrying eggs, providing a well-prepared lay box is critical for the health and well-being of gravid leopard geckos. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and comfortable environment for egg laying and the subsequent development of the eggs. If you think or know that you gecko is gravid, we always recommend an exam to ensure she is otherwise healthy, at that time we can also assist with planning a lay box, and discuss next steps if your gecko does not lay the eggs on their own. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Yarmouth Veterinary Center.