🦎 Introduction
Thinking about getting a leopard gecko? Great choice—they’re hardy, adorable, and low-maintenance. But how long do they actually live?
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The average lifespan of leopard geckos
- How to extend their life with proper care
- The difference between wild and pet lifespans
- Key mistakes to avoid that shorten life expectancy
📊 Average Leopard Gecko Lifespan
| Gecko Type | Lifespan (Captivity) | Lifespan (Wild) |
|---|---|---|
| Males | 15–20 years | ~6–8 years |
| Females | 10–15 years | ~6–8 years |
| Oldest recorded | Over 28 years! | – |
✅ With proper care, leopard geckos easily live 10–20 years in captivity—sometimes even longer!
🧬 Factors That Affect Lifespan
1. 🏡 Tank Setup
Poor heating, bad substrate, and overcrowding lead to stress and illness.
✅ Use a 20+ gallon tank with proper hides, safe substrate, and a heat gradient.
2. 🍽️ Diet & Supplementation
A malnourished gecko won’t last long.
✅ Feed gut-loaded insects + calcium + D3
✅ Rotate multivitamins weekly
3. 🌡️ Temperature & Lighting
Incorrect temps cause digestion problems, impaction, and infections.
✅ Warm side: 88–92°F
✅ Cool side: 75–80°F
✅ Use thermostat to regulate UTH or CHE
4. 🧼 Cleanliness
Dirty tanks lead to bacteria and parasites.
✅ Spot clean daily
✅ Deep clean monthly
✅ Change substrate regularly
5. 🧘♂️ Stress Levels
Stress = reduced immunity = shorter lifespan.
✅ Provide at least 3 hides
✅ Avoid overhandling
✅ Keep in a quiet, stable location
6. 🧬 Genetics & Breeding
Overbred or poorly bred geckos often have weak immune systems or deformities.
✅ Buy from reputable breeders or rescue responsibly.
🧓 Signs of an Aging Gecko
- Slower movement
- Reduced appetite
- More frequent rest periods
- Subtle weight loss
- Softer skin tone
❌ What Can Shorten a Gecko’s Life?
- Sand or loose substrate → impaction
- No calcium or UVB → metabolic bone disease
- Inconsistent temps → poor digestion
- Breeding too early or too often
- Ignoring signs of illness (e.g. tail loss, eye issues)
🧴 Lifespan Tips Summary
| Area | Tip |
|---|---|
| Housing | 20+ gallon tank, proper hides |
| Heating | 88–92°F warm side, regulated by thermostat |
| Diet | Gut-loaded insects + calcium/D3 |
| Cleaning | Daily spot cleaning, monthly deep clean |
| Supplements | Calcium (2–3x/week), multivitamin (1x/week) |
| Handling | Gentle, limited sessions |
🐾 Conclusion
Leopard geckos aren’t just short-term pets—they’re long-term companions. With consistent care, they can easily live 15+ years and stay healthy, active, and alert into old age.
If you’re looking for a pet that sticks around, your leopard gecko will grow with you—just give it the love and environment it needs.