Boettger's wall gecko (Tarentola boettgeri)

Short answers

Boettger's wall gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?

From 60×40×60 cm.

Boettger's wall gecko: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 24–28 °C, basking spot 32–35 °C, at night 18–20 °C.

Boettger's wall gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Recommended (T5 4–6 %).

Boettger's wall gecko: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 8–12 years.

Boettger's wall gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes – it is considered suitable for beginners (difficulty: Beginner).

Climate

Daytime temperature

24–28 °C

Night temperature

18–20 °C

Basking spot

32–35 °C

Humidity

50–60 %

UVB

Recommended (T5 4–6 %)

Enclosure

Minimum size

from 60×40×60 cm

Substrate

Sand-loam with rock structures and cork tubes

Feeding

Food

Insects of all kinds

Feeding interval

Adults 2–3×/week

Key facts

Adult size

12–15 cm

Life expectancy

8–12 years

Origin

The Canary Islands

Protection status

Captive-bred animals only

Brumation

Yes, 8–10 weeks at 12–15 °C

Cohabitation

In pairs or as a harem (1.2) — never two males together, they fight over territory and the basking spot until one is injured or permanently gives way. Females generally get along but need their own heat and hiding spots; feed separately if they differ in size.

Notes

A crepuscular and nocturnal rock dweller, fond of the basking spot by day. Robust and a good way into the genus.

Do you keep this species?

Add your animal to Reptoria – Reptoria reminds you about feeding and shedding. Add your animal for free →

Look for Boettger's wall gecko (Tarentola boettgeri) in the marketplace →

Related species

• Eastern Canary gecko (Tarentola angustimentalis) – Beginner with some knowledge
• La Gomera wall gecko (Tarentola gomerensis) – Beginner with some knowledge
• Helmethead gecko (Tarentola chazaliae) – Intermediate
• Tenerife wall gecko (Tarentola delalandii) – Beginner
• Moorish gecko (Tarentola mauritanica) – Beginner
• White-spotted wall gecko (Tarentola annularis) – Beginner
• Arabian short-fingered gecko (Stenodactylus arabicus) – Beginner with some knowledge
• Bastard's big-headed gecko (Paroedura bastardi) – Beginner

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Boettger's wall gecko (Tarentola boettgeri) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (from 60×40×60 cm), substrate (Sand-loam with rock structures and cork tubes), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.