Photo Disclaimer
Description
African Fat-tailed Gecko (Normal)
Scientific Name: Hemitheconyx caudicinctus
Common Name: African Fat-tailed Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult African Fat-tailed Geckos typically reach 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) in length, with males often being slightly larger and more robust. Their thick tails act as nutrient stores, holding fat and moisture that support energy during periods of low feeding or shedding.
Appearance: The Normal African Fat-tailed Gecko represents the wild-type form of the species, showcasing its natural beauty and defining characteristics. It features alternating dark brown and tan body bands separated by cream or beige striping, with a lighter underside and a distinctive white or pale line running down the back of the tail. The head is broad, with large eyes and movable eyelids. This morph’s earthy tones and velvety skin give it a classic, natural appearance that remains one of the most recognizable and iconic among gecko species.
Distribution: Native to West Africa, including Senegal, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria, where these geckos inhabit dry savannas, grasslands, and rocky scrub environments.
Habitat: In their natural habitat, African Fat-tailed Geckos spend the daytime hours hidden beneath rocks, logs, or in burrows to avoid heat and conserve moisture. In captivity, they thrive in naturalistic terrariums with compacted soil-sand substrates, stable humidity, and secure hides that mimic their wild shelters.
Behaviour: Calm, deliberate, and nocturnal, these geckos are known for their gentle nature and predictable behaviour. They tolerate handling well once accustomed to it and display a steady temperament that makes them suitable for both new and experienced keepers.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a minimum adult enclosure size of 24 inches × 18 inches × 12 inches (60 × 45 × 30 cm). A naturalistic setup with compact soil-sand-clay mixtures allows burrowing and proper humidity regulation. For juveniles or temporary setups, reptile carpet, tile, or paper towel may be used for simplicity and safety. Include three hides—one warm, one cool, and one humid—to support thermoregulation and shedding.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a warm-side surface temperature of 88–92°F (31–33°C) and a cool side between 75–80°F (24–27°C). Nighttime temperatures can safely drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity between 50–70%, with a moist hide available for shedding.
Lighting: UVB lighting (2–5%) is optional but beneficial for natural behaviour and calcium metabolism. Maintain a consistent 12-hour day/night light cycle.
Diet: Offer a varied diet of gut-loaded crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and silkworms. Dust all insects with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2–3 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: Normal African Fat-tailed Geckos are calm, easy to handle, and resilient. They adapt quickly to consistent care, making them reliable and long-lived pets when kept under proper conditions.
Special Considerations: Always regulate heating devices with a thermostat to prevent burns. Regularly monitor tail thickness as a health indicator, as a full, plump tail signals proper nutrition and stored reserves.
Sand: Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions
Sand has long been debated due to potential impaction risks. When used correctly as part of a compacted soil-sand mixture and paired with proper temperature, hydration, and feeding practices, it poses minimal danger. Problems typically arise from loose or calcium-based sands and poor husbandry. For hatchlings, juveniles, or new arrivals, reptile carpet, tile, or paper towel are safer until the gecko is well established.
Taxonomy Note
The African Fat-tailed Gecko (Hemitheconyx caudicinctus) is a member of the Eublepharidae family, which also includes the Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius). These geckos possess movable eyelids and lack adhesive toe pads, making them fully terrestrial. The species is taxonomically stable and consistent across its range, with minor regional variations.
Genetics Note
The Normal African Fat-tailed Gecko represents the wild-type, non-morph form of the species. Its natural coloration serves as the foundation for all other morphs. Although it carries no expressed genetic mutations, it may occasionally possess hidden heterozygous traits depending on lineage.
African Fat-tailed Gecko morphs are derived from recessive, co-dominant, or line-bred traits—such as Amel, Caramel, Oreo, Patternless, Zulu, White Out, and others—each influencing pigmentation, pattern, or colour intensity in distinct ways.