An ideal age to begin playing with your gecko is when it is five to six months old, but any age that it is comfortable with humans is good as long as it’s not still a hatchling. Keep in mind that leopard geckos don’t particularly like being held. If you get your leo used to being handled when it’s young, it probably won’t mind when you hold it, but it won’t love it either![1] X Research source
Don’t rush your gecko. If you are antsy to begin handling and playing with your gecko, comfort yourself by learning all about your leo. When you set up its home, set up hiding places that your leo can go in without being watched. sometimes your leo just wants some alone time, and remember, they are nocturnal, so you shouldn’t bother them during the daytime. While you are watching your gecko, familiarize yourself with your new pet. Find your gecko’s ears (The large hole-like appearances on the side of the Leo’s head). Count how many toes it has on each of its feet. Count how many spots your gecko has and keep track (leopard geckos’ spots will change as they get older).
Don’t be discouraged if your gecko doesn’t crawl on your hand right away. All geckos are different–some are a bit more adventurous than others. Each night, repeat this step and place your hand on the floor of the tank. Eventually your gecko will come to investigate.
Waxworms: These are the most common type of treat to give your gecko. Geckos love the taste of them yet they are high in phosphorus and fat. So only use these sparingly ( not more than about one every two weeks or so, especially if your leo is over a year old, as this could lead to obesity or your leo refusing to eat other insects. ) Do not put calcium on the Waxworm when you do this, as the leopard gecko will eat it, then bite your finger. (powder will be left on your finger, and it will smell this. )
Once your gecko has gotten used to being taken out of its cage, it should calm down a bit and you will be able to handle your gecko on your bed, couch, floor, etc.
Another way to let your gecko explore is to ball up a piece of fabric (like a shirt or towel) and place it on your bed. Let your gecko crawl around the towel and find its own favorite cave or hiding space. Make sure to keep an eye on your gecko so you know where he has hidden himself when it is time to put him back in his tank. Let your gecko explore an empty room or your bed. Geckos like climbing (though they aren’t very good at it) and finding places to crawl into so let it crawl behind and around your cushions and pillows. Just make sure that you keep an eye on your gecko and never leave it unattended, or you could risk losing your gecko.
Leopard geckos love climbing on things. [4] X Expert Source Audra BarriosMarine Biologist & Reptile Specialist Expert Interview. 18 August 2020.
Just be careful that nothing can fall and squish your gecko while it’s playing. [6] X Expert Source Audra BarriosMarine Biologist & Reptile Specialist Expert Interview. 18 August 2020.
