Leopard Gecko (Sunglow)

Leopard Gecko (Sunglow)

Scientific Name: Eublepharis macularius
Common Name: Leopard Gecko (Sunglow)

Species Overview

Size: Adult Leopard Geckos typically reach about 8–10 inches (20–25 cm). They are medium-sized, sturdy reptiles well adapted to arid and semi-arid environments.

Appearance: The Sunglow morph is a visually bright, clean-looking Leopard Gecko that combines Tremper Albino with the reduced-spotting influence of Hypo/Super Hypo line breeding. Tremper Albino removes black pigment and produces warm pinks, creams, and light yellows, while the Hypo traits minimize or eliminate spotting on the body. When combined, they create a gecko with a smooth, pastel orange-to-yellow appearance, often deepening to rich tangerine tones as the animal matures. The overall look is warm, vibrant, and pattern-light, with soft eyes typical of Tremper Albinos.

Distribution: Leopard Geckos originate from Pakistan, Afghanistan, northwestern India, and Iran.

Habitat: Wild Leopard Geckos inhabit rocky deserts and scrublands where they shelter in burrows during the heat of the day. In captivity, they thrive in warm, semi-arid enclosures with secure hiding spaces.

Behaviour: Leopard Geckos are nocturnal and calm-natured. They tolerate gentle handling and display natural behaviours such as burrowing, nighttime exploring, and hunting insects.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A terrestrial enclosure measuring at least 24 inches × 18 inches × 12 inches (60 × 45 × 30 cm) is ideal. Provide a warm hide, cool hide, and humid hide. A sandy soil or clay-based naturalistic substrate supports digging behaviors.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a warm side of 88–92°F (31–33°C) and a cool side between 75–80°F (24–27°C). Nighttime temperatures may drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Humidity should remain around 30–40%, with a humid hide elevated to 60–70% to assist with shedding. Use a thermostat to regulate heating.

Lighting: Albino-line geckos can be light-sensitive. Provide low-level UVB (2–5%) and ensure shaded areas inside the enclosure. Maintain a regular 12-hour day/night cycle.

Diet: Feed gut-loaded insects such as roaches, crickets, mealworms, and silkworms. Adults typically eat every other day, while juveniles require daily feeding. Dust prey with calcium and multivitamin supplements. Provide fresh water at all times.

Behaviour in Captivity: Leopard Geckos are hardy and often live 15–20 years or longer with appropriate care. They adapt well to routine feeding and consistent environmental conditions.

Special Considerations: Due to the albino component, Sunglows may be more sensitive to bright lighting. Their colouration can intensify with age depending on lineage quality.

Taxonomy Note

The Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) belongs to the family Eublepharidae. The Sunglow morph is a widely recognized combination used in many tangerine-based breeding lines.

Genetics Note

This morph combines:

• Tremper Albino (recessive) – Removes black pigment and produces soft pastel colours.

• Hypo / Super Hypo (polygenic / line-bred) – Reduces or eliminates spotting on the body, encouraging cleaner, brighter colour development.

These traits affect appearance only and do not alter standard Leopard Gecko husbandry.