My leopard gecko is tame after 3 weeks. Is this normal for a new pet?

If he isn't struggling or trying to escape, he's probably okay with being held. Don't hold him for too long initially. Gradually increase the handling time to acclimate him. Even though he doesn't struggle, it may still be stressful, so he'll return to a safe place when returned to the enclosure. As he adjusts to his new surroundings, he may begin to explore. A "best guess" on age would be 12 to 16 weeks. Reptiles have different growth rates depending on diet, availability of food and environmental factors.

Hello! Tokay geckos are not very social pets. Regardless of handling and training over time, some species are still very difficult to tame and are more "look but don't touch" pets. Most Tokay geckos would fall into this category. Some people enjoy having pets like this, and some do not. I am only saying this as it sounds like you may be a bit discouraged by his lack of social behavior, but it likely has nothing to do with your handling skills and everything to do with his biology. Petco works to adopt out surrendered pets frequently and would be happy to help rehome your gecko. I would recommend calling your local store to discuss the situation and a staff member should be able to help guide you through the process. I hope you find this helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

You will need to gradually acclimate Peanut to handling. Begin by simply sitting by the cage for ever increasing periods of time. Move slowly and speak softly around her. She may retreat to her hide or to the far side of the cage initially. Don't worry, this us normal. When she becomes more accepting and calm, progress to placing your hand in the enclosure. Again, for ever increasing periods of time. She may once again retreat. Make no attempt to touch or hold her. Use small treats to coax her closer to you then onto your hand. Be patient and be consistent. The more you interact with her, the quicker she will become acclimated.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is likely that you will be able to help him. However, I would recommend you consider taking him to your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment first. They can at least assess the situation and recommend therapy accordingly which you may then continue at home. Best of luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

Thanks for reaching out about Blu. It sounds as if he is being secretive or scared. Is he housed alone? Is his terrarium in a high traffic area? If yes to either of these, that situation might have to be corrected. Check environmental temperature in the whole exhibit. Good luck.

I commend you for rescuing those Leos! Female leopard geckos may live together peacefully as long as they have a large enough enclosure. Males should not be housed together as they will fight. If you have a male and female, they should be separated until the female is at least 55 grams, which is the minimum weight recommended for breeding. I would guess they may be about 3-5 months old. Hatchlings typically weigh 2-5 grams for reference. There is no "standard" since leos will grow at different rates depending on dietary and environmental factors. You can determine sex by looking underneath. Males have noticeably distinct femoral pores and pre-anal pores. The base of their tail will have two hemipenal bumps as well. You can review leopard gecko care here: http://www.anapsid.org/leopardgek.html

It will take patience and consistency on your part. Spend time sitting by the cage. He may run or hide initially, but when he doesn't, place your hand in the cage for ever increasing periods of time. Once again, he may run and hide but make no attempt to touch or hold him. Once he stops running from your hand, use special food treats/prey to entice him onto your hand. Eventually, he will anticipate your presence as meaning a potential meal or treat.