Afghan Leopard Gecko

The Afghan Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis afghanicus) is a distinct species within the Eublepharis genus, native to eastern Afghanistan and parts of northwestern Pakistan. It occupies arid and rocky terrains, similar to its relatives, often seeking shelter in rock crevices and burrows to escape extreme daytime heat. Smaller and generally more slender than Eublepharis macularius, this species exhibits more uniform banding and typically darker, more muted coloration—an adaptation to its natural habitat.

First described in 1979 by Börner, E. afghanicus was once considered a subspecies of E. macularius, but is now recognized as its own species. Though less common in the pet trade, it remains a hardy and adaptable gecko that thrives under the same captive care parameters as its more popular cousin. Its behavior, dietary needs, and environmental preferences closely mirror those of E. macularius, making it a suitable choice for enthusiasts seeking a slightly different but equally manageable species.

Leopard Geckos are insectivorous, feeding primarily on crickets, mealworms, and other appropriately sized live insects. In captivity, their diet should be varied and supplemented with calcium and vitamin D3 to prevent metabolic bone disease. Unlike many reptiles, they store fat in their tails, which serves as an energy reserve during periods of food scarcity or illness.

Housing Leopard Geckos in captivity requires a secure, escape-proof enclosure with adequate floor space and multiple hiding spots to promote natural behaviors and reduce stress. While a 20-gallon long tank is typically suitable for a single adult gecko, larger enclosures—such as a 30- or 40-gallon breeder with dimensions of 36"x18"—are ideal. These provide more room for movement, enrichment, and temperature gradients, improving overall quality of life.

A proper temperature gradient is essential for thermoregulation, with a warm side maintained between 88–92°F (31–33°C) and a cooler side around 75–80°F (24–27°C). Under-tank heating (UTH) is commonly used to replicate natural ground warmth, and it should always be paired with a thermostat to ensure temperatures remain safe and consistent. Overhead heating can also be utilized, particularly in enclosures with thicker substrate layers, such as those designed to be naturalistic or bioactive. Ceramic heat emitters or deep heat projectors are excellent choices for this purpose. These bulbs are more durable than standard glass heat bulbs and emit infrared heat that is less harsh on sensitive eyes—an important consideration for albino morphs, which are common in the pet trade and often carry one of the three known albino gene lines. Ultimately, regardless of the heating method, what matters most is that the heat source provides the proper temperature gradient throughout the enclosure.

Substrate choice should reflect the age and setup of the gecko’s environment. For very young or small geckos, reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile are often recommended for ease of cleaning and safety. For keepers pursuing a more naturalistic or bioactive setup, loose sand alone is best avoided. However, a well-balanced mix of soil, sand, and sphagnum moss can make an excellent, realistic substrate that supports burrowing and humidity retention. The topic of impaction is often surrounded by misinformation. Current understanding suggests that the risk of impaction with natural substrate blends is minimal when environmental conditions are appropriate. In fact, impaction is more often linked to improper husbandry—such as inadequate temperatures, poor hydration, or insufficient supplementation—rather than substrate alone. Even geckos housed on sterile surfaces can become impacted from undigested insect exoskeletons if kept in improper conditions. Providing correct temperatures, access to humidity, UVB lighting, and proper supplementation is key to healthy digestion and minimizing impaction risk, regardless of the substrate used.

Though generally tolerant of gentle handling, Leopard Geckos should be approached calmly and supported fully during interactions to prevent stress or injury. With consistent care, appropriate housing, and a proper diet, the Afghan Leopard Gecko can be a unique and rewarding alternative for keepers interested in species beyond the standard E. macularius, without sacrificing ease of care.