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Species setup · Thick-tailed gecko

A tiny gecko with a very big bark.

Thick-tailed geckos are one of Australia’s most popular beginner geckos — hardy, nocturnal and famous for their little bark. They need warmth on the floor, a humid hide and somewhere dark to sleep.

Species setupUpdated October 2026Written for Australian keepers

At a glance

Adult enclosure
≈60 × 45 × 45 cm (more is better)
Warm end
≈28–30 °C
Cool end
≈22–24 °C
Heat
Thermostatted mat or cord, low light
Humidity
Dry overall + one humid hide
Diet
Dusted insects every 2–3 days

Floor heat and hides

As nocturnal geckos, they take warmth from surfaces. A heat mat or cord on a thermostat under one end, with hides on both warm and cool sides, lets them choose. Add one hide with damp moss to help shedding.

Light and UVB

They don’t bask in sun, but a low-strength UVB (zone 1) and a normal day–night cycle are increasingly recommended. Keep bright lights away from their hides.

Feeding

Crickets, woodies and small roaches, dusted with calcium, every two to three days for adults. Mealworms are fine as an occasional extra for adults.

Licensing

Native reptiles need a licence or permit in most Australian states and territories. Check with your state wildlife authority.

What to buy

01

60 cm front-opening terrarium

Best for: An adult or a small group

Why it’s on the list
Easy access and good viewing.
Watch for
Add backgrounds for security.
Compare on Amazon AU
02

Heat mat + on/off thermostat

Best for: Warm floor zone

Why it’s on the list
Gentle belly heat for a nocturnal gecko.
Watch for
Always thermostatted.
Compare on Amazon AU
03

Humid hide

Best for: Shedding

Why it’s on the list
Damp moss hide prevents stuck shed.
Watch for
Keep the moss damp, not wet.
Compare on Amazon AU
04

Calcium powder

Best for: Dusting insects

Why it’s on the list
Supports bone health.
Watch for
Follow a simple routine.
Compare on Amazon AU

Small enclosure, big character

Our micro backdrops add caves, ledges and hides to small gecko enclosures.

See micro backdrop prices

Questions keepers ask

Do thick-tailed geckos need UVB?

They’re nocturnal and don’t need strong UVB, but low-level UVB with a natural day–night cycle is increasingly recommended.

Why is my thick-tailed gecko barking?

It’s a defensive display — common when they’re startled or handled.

Can thick-tailed geckos live together?

Females often can; males usually shouldn’t be housed together.

Keep reading

Knob-tailed gecko enclosure ideasFeeder Insects in AustraliaReptile Calcium & Vitamin Supplements in Australia

General information for Australian keepers, not veterinary advice. As an Amazon Associate, Oddball Animal Works earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes your price. About our links

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