Geckos are easy to take care for, gentle and can live comfortably as pets.
This makes them a good option for new keepers.
Many species come with beautiful patterns and colors. They are extremely friendly.
When selecting the right pet Gecko it is crucial to understand certain species are comfortable for beginners. Certain species are friendly and outgoing while others shy and can be a bit shy.
It is essential that the beginner chooses the correct species for them.
Keep reading to find out our 15 most popular pet gecko species suitable for beginners.
A-Z Listing of Pet Geckos
| Species | Appearance | Price | Sort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Africa Fat-Tailed | Like a leopard Gecko with its characteristically large tail. | Between $125 and $150 | 3 |
| Chinese Cave | From brown to purple-gray to bands of yellow and black as well as spots. | Between $100 and $300 | 5 |
| Crested | A triangular head with large round eyes. | From $50 to $100 | 2 |
| Common House | Tan bodies and big lids. | $5 | 6 |
| Chahoua | Brown, green and red to help them blend with the surroundings. | From $850 to $2,000 | 7 |
| Flying | Brown and black, giving the appearance of moss. | From $25 to $40 | 11 |
| Frog-Eyed | The color is white and yellow, with brown spots scattered throughout. | From $50 to $80 | 15 |
| Giant Day | One of the most renowned varieties that is Day Gecko and bright green. | Between $50 and $250 | 10 |
| Gargoyle | The appearance of a leaf is similar to that of a snake with eyes. | Between $225 and $500 | 4 |
| Gold Dust Day | A green base color with blue and red patterns and tiny yellow spots. | Between $50 and $250 | 9 |
| Leachie | The species is large and can grow more than one foot in length. | Between $600 and $1,000 | 12 |
| Leopard | Shades of yellow and Tan with white bellies with dark brown spots. | $20-$50 | 1 |
| Madagascar Ground | Auburn eyeswith brick red bodies and brown tan with white streaks. | From $25 to $100 | 14 |
| Mediterranean House | Dark spots and large eyes. | $30 | 8 |
| A Yellow Headed Day | Four inches of length and neon-colored stripes. | $150 | 13 |
Top 15 Geckos For Beginners
15. Frog-Eyed Gecko
“The Frog-Eyed” Gecko is named for the large eyes that slit like a slit.
At first glance, Frog-Eyes appear quite similar to the popular leopard lizard. However, they’re slightly larger and don’t have vibrant patterns.
They’re typically yellow-tan and white in appearance. They are covered with patches of brown, tan and brown on their back and on the top of their heads.
Frog-Eyed Geckos originate native to central Asia and are found in a dry and hot habitat. For a beginner, it is important to keep their enclosures between the temperature of 84 and 93oF, to ensure that they stay happy and healthy.
This species should be kept by an experienced beginner or a more advanced keeper. They’re not as easy to maintain or as outgoing as other species.
Once you have adopted this pet, you’ll soon discover that this animal loves sprinting to the edge of their enclosure to watch the world outside. The owners are thrilled with their pets.
These species of frogs are perfect for anyone wanting to observe an Gecko but is unable to manage them. The handling is a strain on the species and can lead to them losing their tails.
A person who is a beginner in the field can manage this reptile as long as the conditions of temperature, humidity and even their maintained.
- Personality A natural curiosity and enjoys watching from a distance.
- Size 5-8 inches.
- Lifespan: 20 years.
14. Madagascar Ground Gecko
Owners are enthralled by their Madagascar Ground Gecko for their distinctive colors.
They usually have eyes of auburn that go well with their red-brick body and their brown, tan, and white flecks.
It is known as the Madagascar Ground Gecko has several names (lizard names) such as:
- Ocelot
- Panther
- Ground
There are 22 distinct varieties from the Madagascar The Ground Gecko. However, the best pet species is the Paroedura pictus.
Madagascar species are a fantastic option for those who are just starting out.
Contrary to the majority of Geckos They are terrestrial and they don’t require an enormous tank to climb up. They’re also very small and are only 5 inches tall as adults. This means that they don’t require a lot of space, and they can do well in a tank of 10 gallons.
The species also tolerates frequent handling.
They’re a great option for pet owners who would like to manage their pet’s needs occasionally.
- Personality can be docile and accept handling.
- Size: 5.5 inches.
- Lifespan from 6 to 10 years.
13. Yellow-Headed Day Gecko
The yellow-colored Day Gecko is a part of the Day Gecko family.
Day-loving species are great pets due to their ease to take care of and vibrantly colored.
They are a fantastic option for someone who is just starting out and would like to care for an attractively colorful Gecko.
Yellow-Headed species differ from other Day Geckos because of their small size with bright neon stripes, and their interaction with other Lizards. Because of their behavior in social settings, they are able to have several females.
Adults are only 4 inches. However, they require a big tank to display the complete variety of their personality and energy.
Similar to like Madagascar Ground Gecko this species is also found in Madagascar. If you visit Madagascar it’s not uncommon to spot them resting on bamboo!
The Yellow-Heads have been secured within their habitat. Therefore, you can only purchase breeds that are captive-bred.
They’re best suited to an easy beginner who is an avid fan of colorful colors and social reptiles. This reptile may be timid around humans, but it is fun to have the family.
- Personality is less geographical than the any other Day subspecies.
- Size: 4 inches.
- Lifespan: 10 years.
12. Leachie Gecko
Leachianus Leachianus is also often referred to as The New Caledonian Giant Gecko.
Leachies can be among the most affluent pet geckos..
Adults can reach over one foot tall and are an extremely unique pet due to their size. Geckos of all kinds are just under six inches.
Leachies are renowned for their distinctive vocalizations. Leachies shout, bark, and expand throughout the night , as they are night-time creatures.
An enthusiastic beginner who is willing to do their own research and performs regular maintenance can look after this species. However, they are best in homes with experience.
This species could be difficult because of their size and character. They are huge and require plenty of space.
They also cost more than the majority of pets. Geckos and are also very aggressive.
- Personality The word “cautionary” means territorial, and vocal.
- Size Between 8-17 inches.
- Lifespan: 20 years.
11. Flying Gecko
This Flying Gecko is found high in the trees of Indonesia.
This pet Gecko is mossy with brown colors and black. Tan, as well as black. Their appearance makes them be a part of the natural environment.
Amazingly, this species has webbed feet and a tail with a flat shape which allows them in order to “fly”. This Gecko can leap from tree to tree by pulling in their feet and flapping their tails. “>
The flying species typically do not exhibit their flying behaviors in captivity because of a absence of space.
Beginning pet owners should consider the 50-gallon tank as a pet. Decorate the tank with thick plant life and branches.
Flying species are easy to take care of in captivity however they do are temperamental. They’re quick, difficult to capture and don’t take to handling. They require a handler who is kind and patient they are best suited for adults who are beginning to learn.
- Personality Skittish, nocturnal and sluggish.
- Size 6-8 inches.
- Lifespan 5-8 years.
10. Giant Day Gecko
Owners love this Gecko because of their brightly colored appearance.
“The Giant” Day Gecko is a different species that comes from Madagascar.
The species is usually located high within the forests of Madagascar. They enjoy spending their time in the sun by clinging on to the tree’s branches and trunks.
They are among the largest species in the Day family and are bright green. Some species feature vivid red and blue patterns, too.
Their coloring can alter to signal the stress level or to signal in a way with different species. As with the majority of species of Gecko they don’t enjoy handling, and they may even lose their tails when they become too stressed.
For beginners, it is important to know they are Giant Days are great at getting out of their tanks.
It is important to ensure that they have a well-constructed installation and a sealed lid.
Giant Day species are perfect for those who are just beginning their journey and want an lizard with a vibrant color to admire in peace in the daylight times.
- Personality Territorial with other Lizards.
- Size: 12 inches.
- Lifespan 6-8 years.
9. The Gold Dust Day Gecko
Gold Dust Day Geckos are a green species that comes from Madagascar.
The reptile’s background color, green, with blue and red patterns. They also have tiny yellow spots, which are what give them their Gold Dust name.
It is Gold Dust Day is the final of the three Day Gecko species on our list.
As with Neon Day. Neon Day this lizard is smaller than the majority of species. Also, they are more colorful that they do giant cousins.
Like other Day species, they don’t like being handled.
Gold Dust species are naturally shy and like hiding in vegetation or behind rocks.
Although they are not able to handle, their easy treatment and their gentle nature make them an ideal pet Gecko.
- Personality It’s fascinating, but it’s easily overloaded by handling.
- Size 6-9 inches.
- Lifespan: 10 years.
8. Mediterranean House Gecko
Mediterranean House Geckos are native to southern Europe and northern Africa. They usually range from in the range of tan to purple with large, eyes.
This lizard isn’t too large and it lives happily in a large 20-gallon tank.
Mediterranean House species are normally located near or in offices or houses.
Over the past two decades, in the last two decades, this Gecko has seen its way into regions of Texas through cargo ships that transport through Europe to America.
What makes this lizard an ideal Gecko for beginners is the fact that it could already be apprehensive about living in your home.
They are extremely tough and happy living with other species.
For those who are new to Europe or Northern Africa they make a excellent pet for the first time.
- Personality A person who is happy with people but not quite as shy as Day Geckos.
- Size between 4 and 5 inches.
- Lifespan 5-10 years.
7. Chahoua Gecko
Chahoua Geckos are often red, green and brown to help them blend in with their surroundings.
The Chahoua is a different New Caledonian species. That is found in the rainforest’s treetops.
They are known as Chahoua due to the scientific title Rhacodactylus Chahoua. These are also referred to by the following names:
- New Caledonian Mossy Prehensile-Tailed.
- “Chewie”
Chahoua Geckos have a reputation for being low-maintenance. They are nocturnal which means they don’t require additional lighting. They also are a healthy eater and can consume food that is commercially available. Crested Gecko food.
The pet lizard in this breed is extremely affectionate and loves being held occasionally. However, if not handled in the manner of juveniles and are handled with care, they may become agitated.
The only issue is their price when they are young, and as a result, they could cost up to $2,000.
- Personality Friendly and enjoys looking at what’s going on out of the tank.
- Size: 10 inches.
- Lifespan: 20 years.
6. Common House Gecko
Common House Common House is known as an Asian House Gecko.
The pet reptile in this picture is like it’s cousin, the Mediterranean House Gecko. Both are tan in their bodies with large eyes that are not lidless. They’ve also been introduced to different areas of the world via humans traveling ( like the Mediterranean House Gecko in Texas).
In contrast to the Mediterranean species that is found in Europe, this reptile comes found in the southeast region of Asia but not Europe.
Within the United States Common House Geckos are most often located within Texas as well as Florida.
They are nocturnal and typically located close to artificial light sources during late at night. They feed on insects that are attracted to the light source.
This species adapts well in a home as pets because they are already in households. However, they can be quite fast and don’t like being handled.
Instead, they’re happier having a good time with you.
They make excellent pets due to their flexibility and are ideal for beginners looking for an easy-care Gecko.
- Personality Loves being in a space with other humans.
- Size 3 – 6 inches.
- Lifespan: 5 years.
5. Chinese Cave Gecko
This species of Gecko has red eyes.
Chinese Caves make a robust Gecko that is ideal for beginners.
This particular type of Gecko is in the same genus that is the Leopard and African Fat-Tailed species. Chinese Caves aren’t as widespread as their leopard Gecko relatives, however, they are equally easy to take care of.
They are typically from brown to purple with yellow and black spots and bands.
There is nothing on the negative aspects of taking care of this animal.
Chinese Caves don’t require specific lighting ( because they are night-time creatures) they are comfortable at temperatures of room temperature ( unlike most reptiles which require temperatures of 80oF or more) and are able to be kept in a 10 gallon tank. They are also tolerant of handling.
They are a tough pet and ideal for anyone who is learning how to care for the Gecko.
- Personality Shy, quiet but not territorial.
- Size 8 to 9 inches.
- Lifespan: 15 years.
4. Gargoyle Gecko
These geckos are masters of disguise. They can easily blend in with the trunk of a tree!
Gargoyle Geckos are great pets for people who are new to the hobby.
They are simple to look after, easy to feed and are a joy to handle. As compared to other species listed on this list, they are very fond of contact with humans as well as occasional handling.
What’s distinctive concerning this animal is their leafy appearance. Their eyes that resemble snakes complement their brown, mottled skin which makes them ideal to disguise in the woods.
It is the Gargoyle Gecko is an arboreal species with a semi-arboreal habitat which can be seen within the treetops or in the ground.
As with many species that are nocturnal, they don’t require special lighting. They are also healthy at temperatures of 70 to 80oF.
Gargoyles are excellent for everyone who is new to the hobby. They require minimal care and can handle handling.
- Personality is a person who enjoys human contact and manipulation.
- Size 7-9 inches.
- Lifespan: 20 years.
3. African Fat-Tailed Gecko
It is the African fat-tailed is a cousin that is a relative of Chinese Cave that was named for their distinctively fat tail. They are identical to leopard Geckos but are smaller in size.
The lizard is found in savannahs , and along the river edges throughout West Africa.
African Fat-Tailed Geckos make an excellent option for a variety of reasons.
1. It is typical to keep them as pets and their needs are clearly documented.
2. They are extremely gentle and are slow-moving which means that beginners can handle them with ease.
3. They do not require any special lighting.
4. They are simple to keep and feed.
The African Fat-Tail ideal for anyone seeking their first reptile to keep as a pet. They’re a fascinating reptile.
- Personality The HTML0 personality is calm, docile and slow-moving.
- Size 7-9 inches.
- Lifespan between 10 and 25 years.
2. Crested Gecko
It is believed that the Crested Gecko is one of the loved pet Gecko of the Rhacodactylus Genus. They’re named for the crests which run through their eyes and down to their backs. They’re unique due to the crests of eyelashes that help to keep dirt and dust.
Crested Geckos have triangular-shaped heads with large, eyes that are round. It is interesting to note that they use their eyes to wash their eyes ( as do most species listed on the list).
This species has eyes that resemble snakes which usually have a light orange hue. Their eyes complement their sunset-yellow body color.
Crested is a great pet for beginners. Crested is an excellent pet for novices due to their broad and well-rounded traits.
They are nocturnal, solitary thus they do not require any particular lighting. They are also easy to care for and are gentle. Due to their soft nature, they can be handled almost all the time.
- Personality A calm disposition that is able to be handled.
- Size 6-10 inches.
- Lifespan Between 15 and 20 Years.
1. Leopard Gecko
Leopards are the perfect companions for your Gecko!
They’re not only an ideal first gecko but they’re also a great first reptile. They are very gentle and pet-friendly.
Many first-time keepers have managed to successfully keep this species. Leopard species are simple to feed, don’t require large tanks, and generally are healthy. They also sleep at night, so don’t require any special lighting.
There are many keepers who have successfully crossed the species in the wild.
The Leopard Gecko is from southwestern Asia and is named for its gorgeous places.
The species is available in varieties of morphs and colors. Wild type have an appearance that ranges from yellow to Tan. With white belly with dark brown spots.
The leopard is unique and stands out from other pet geckos since they have eyelids that move. They do not wipe their eyes to clean them.
- Personality Very gentle and easy to control.
- Size 7-10 inches.
- Lifespan between 10 and 20 years.
Which Gecko is The Most Suitable For You?
Geckos are fascinating reptiles that make wonderful pets (20 best pet lizards).
The species listed here appear similar, but have distinct differences in personal characteristics, care requirements and habitat. It is crucial to know the kind of Gecko is suitable for them.
Here are some suggestions to think about.
There are some that are less expensive than others.
Leopard, Crested, House, Flying and Frog-Eyed Geckos are the most affordable beginner-friendly species. Gargoyles Chahouas Leachies, Leaf-Tailed and Leopard are expensive.
A lot of geckos in this list are simple to handle However, some species are overwhelmed by handling. If you’d like to manage your lizard, then think about getting one of the following species: Leopard, Crested, African Fat-Tailed Gargoyle as well as one of the Mediterranean Ground. The beginners are usually more comfortable with smaller species like those of the Mediterranean as well as Leopard.
Certain species have basic needs for husbandry and are durable. Others are not.
Common House Geckos often have limited lifespans, however Leopard Frog-Eyed Gargoyle African Fat-Tail, and Crested Geckos are able to live for as long as 20 years.
It is essential to be aware that all the species mentioned above are appropriate for various owners.
Which one is your top?
We’d love to hear from you by leaving a comment below!
