Gecko heating

[Walterloo]

I'm soon going to buy a young Leopard Gecko and I have come across conflicting ideas about setting up the tank. The tank I have already purchased came with dual lights (night and day bulbs) and a heat rock, but some 'care sheet' information for geckos state that no lighting is required and heat mats are better than the rocks because you can control the heat, even though the rock included has a device that disables it from overheating. I don't really want to go out and purchase more products unless thoroughly recommended. Are there any gecko owners who use the lights and/or heat rock without any trouble? Thanks in advance.

[x799sej]

Hi I am soon to be purchasing a gecko and the breeder has told me they only need a heat pad to keep them warm as they are nocturnal and dont need any extra lighting during the day or night. I know with bigger lizards ie: bearded dragon they need the special lamps to keep warm and to get uv rays as they bask a lot in the light and geckos don't do this so he said. Make sure if it is a very young gecko that you only use paper as a substrate as if you use sand or any other loose material they can swallow this and it will get stuck inside them and they could die. Newspaper or kitchen towel is best until they get bigger. I hope this info helps.

[Walterloo]

Thanks x799, you've helped me make up my mind by confirming the majority of opinion on this. I will get a heat mat and he'll be the happiest and warmest gecko on the south coast.

[x799sej]

I'm glad I was able to help have fun with your new pet.