🧭 Introduction
If you’re planning to keep a Tokay Gecko, the first thing you’ll need is a safe, vertical, and well-humidified enclosure.
Unlike ground-dwelling reptiles, Tokays are arboreal (tree-living), meaning they require climbing space and height, not width.
This guide walks you through:
- Ideal tank size
- Proper heating and lighting
- Humidity setup
- Decor and hiding spots
- Maintenance tips
📐 Tank Size & Orientation
| Gecko Age | Minimum Size |
|---|---|
| Juvenile | 12″x12″x18″ (30x30x45 cm) |
| Adult | 18″x18″x24″ or larger |
🧠 Vertical space is essential — aim for taller tanks with climbing surfaces.
Best Enclosure Types:
- Exo Terra vertical glass terrariums
- Custom PVC reptile tanks
- Modified aquariums with screen tops (less ideal for humidity)
🌡️ Heating & Lighting
Though Tokay Geckos are nocturnal, they still need proper basking heat and optionally UVB.
Ideal Temperatures:
| Zone | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Basking Area | 88–92°F (31–33°C) |
| Cool Side | 75–80°F (24–27°C) |
| Night Minimum | ≥70°F (21°C) |
Lighting Tips:
- Use low-intensity UVB bulb (e.g., Arcadia ShadeDweller or Zoo Med 5.0)
- Provide a 12-hour day/night cycle
- Install a thermostat + ceramic heat emitter (CHE) for stable warmth
💧 Humidity & Substrate
Tokay Geckos need high humidity, mimicking their native Southeast Asian forests.
Humidity Range:
- 60–80%, with spikes up to 90% after misting
- Use digital hygrometer (avoid analog ones)
Substrate Options:
| Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Coconut husk | Retains moisture, natural look |
| Bioactive mix | Self-sustaining, long-term use |
| Orchid bark | Mold-resistant and decorative |
How to Maintain Humidity:
- Mist 1–2x per day (automatic misting system optional)
- Add live plants like pothos or fern
- Cover part of screen lid with plastic/acrylic
- Use humid hides (moss-filled)
🌿 Decor & Enrichment
Tokay Geckos love to climb, hide, and ambush-feed. Create a vertical playground:
Must-Have Features:
- Cork bark flats & tubes
- Vines (fake or real)
- Magnetic hides or ledges
- Background for climbing (3D foam or cork)
- Plants for shade and humidity
🧹 Cleaning & Maintenance
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Spot clean poop | Daily or every other day |
| Water bowl refresh | Daily |
| Misting | 1–2x/day |
| Deep clean | Biweekly–Monthly |
| Replace UVB bulb | Every 6–12 months |
If using bioactive setup, spot-clean only and maintain isopods/springtails.
📋 Checklist: What You’ll Need
✅ 18″x18″x24″ tall enclosure
✅ Ceramic heat emitter + thermostat
✅ UVB bulb + fixture (optional but preferred)
✅ Digital thermometer + hygrometer
✅ Moist substrate (coconut husk, moss, etc.)
✅ Hides (ground and elevated)
✅ Plants and climbing decor
✅ Misting system or spray bottle
✅ Feeding tongs + calcium supplements
✅ Pros of a Proper Setup
✔ Healthier skin and shedding
✔ Lower stress and aggression
✔ Encourages natural behaviors
✔ Reduces chance of infection/mouth rot