Northern spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus ciliaris)
Geckos · Difficulty: Intermediate
Key facts and care guidance for Northern spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus ciliaris) (origin: Central Australia – dry scrub). Adult size around 10–14 cm. Life expectancy 8–12 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Northern spiny-tailed gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?
60×40×60 cm.
Northern spiny-tailed gecko: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 26–32 °C, basking spot 35 °C, at night 18–22 °C.
Northern spiny-tailed gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Weak UVB recommended.
Northern spiny-tailed gecko: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 8–12 years.
Northern spiny-tailed gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?
Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 26–32 °C
- Night temperature
- 18–22 °C
- Basking spot
- 35 °C
- Humidity
- 40–55 %
- UVB
- Weak UVB recommended
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 60×40×60 cm
- Substrate
- Sand-loam with dry branches and tussocks of grass
Feeding
- Food
- Insects
- Feeding interval
- adults 3×/week
Key facts
- Adult size
- 10–14 cm
- Life expectancy
- 8–12 years
- Origin
- Central Australia – dry scrub
- Protection status
- Not covered by CITES; export from Australia is prohibited – captive-bred animals only
- Brumation
- A cooler spell of 6–8 weeks
- Cohabitation
- Keeping as a pair or a small harem (1.2) is possible. Two males do not work together - they fight over territory and basking spots until one is seriously injured or ends up permanently cornered. One male with several females, however, works reliably. Several basking and hiding spots matter so subordinate animals can retreat, and feed separately once animals differ in size.
Notes
By day it sits out in the open on twigs rather than hiding. When threatened it can spray a foul-smelling secretion from its tail – harmless, but surprising.
Do you keep this species?
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Related species
- Jewelled gecko (Strophurus elderi) – Intermediate
- Southern spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus intermedius) – Intermediate
- Golden-tailed gecko (Strophurus taenicauda) – Intermediate
- Kristin's spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus krisalys) – Intermediate
- Eastern spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus williamsi) – Intermediate
- Western shield spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus wellingtonae) – Intermediate
- Western spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus spinigerus) – Intermediate
- Thick-tailed gecko (Underwoodisaurus milii) – Beginner to intermediate
What you need to start
To keep Northern spiny-tailed gecko (Strophurus ciliaris) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (60×40×60 cm), substrate (Sand-loam with dry branches and tussocks of grass), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_spiny-tailed_gecko, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strophurus
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).