Discover why the Paroedura pictus—also known as the Madagascar Ground Gecko—makes an excellent pet reptile. Learn expert care guidelines, enclosure setup tips, and feeding advice from Homestead Exotics.

If you’re searching for a small, eye-catching reptile that’s easy to care for and full of personality, look no further than the Paroedura pictus. Commonly called the Madagascar Ground Gecko, this species is native to the forest floors of Madagascar and has become a favorite among reptile enthusiasts for its vivid patterns and curious nighttime behavior.

At Homestead Exotics, we’re big fans of these little geckos and love helping keepers provide them with the perfect home. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your Paroedura pictus happy and thriving.

🌍 About the Madagascar Ground Gecko

The Paroedura pictus is a small, terrestrial gecko that typically grows between 5–6 inches in length. Their patterns range from bold bands to intricate spots in shades of tan, brown, and cream, helping them blend perfectly with their surroundings in the wild.

They’re nocturnal, meaning they’re most active at night, and you’ll often find them exploring once the lights go out. Though they’re not overly fond of frequent handling, they are fascinating to observe and make excellent display reptiles.

🏠 Paroedura pictus Enclosure Setup

Tank Size

A 10–20 gallon terrarium works well for a single adult. For a pair or trio, a 20-gallon long tank or larger is recommended. These geckos thrive in enclosures with plenty of hides and visual barriers to feel secure.

Substrate

Use a mix of soil and sand, or a commercial bioactive substrate that retains moisture while allowing for burrowing. Avoid loose, dusty sand on its own.

Decor & Hides

Provide multiple hiding spots using cork bark, rocks, and leaf litter. Add branches and flat stones to create climbing and basking opportunities. A humid hide filled with damp sphagnum moss is essential to help with shedding.

Temperature & Lighting

• Warm side: 85–88°F
• Cool side: 75–78°F
• Night drop: 70°F

These geckos do well without intense UVB, but a low-level UVB bulb (2.0–5.0) helps with calcium absorption and overall health.

Humidity

Maintain 50–70% humidity. Mist once or twice daily, ensuring the substrate stays slightly damp but not soggy.

🍽️ Feeding Your Paroedura pictus

These geckos are insectivores, so they should be offered a variety of live prey:

• Crickets
• Dubia roaches
• Mealworms (occasional treat)
• Black soldier fly larvae

Feeding frequency:

• Juveniles: daily
• Adults: every other day

Always dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to prevent deficiencies and promote bone strength.

💧 Water & Hydration

Provide a shallow water dish and change it daily. Your gecko will also drink from water droplets after misting—another reason consistent humidity is important.

🧬 Temperament & Handling

While Paroedura pictus are not aggressive, they can be skittish and quick-moving. Gentle, minimal handling is best. Over time, some individuals may become more tolerant of short interactions, but they’re primarily watch-and-enjoy pets.

❤️ Why Choose a Paroedura pictus as a Pet Gecko?

• Compact and easy to house
• Active and entertaining to watch
• Unique appearance and color variations
• Hardy and beginner-friendly

Whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or an experienced keeper looking for something new, the Madagascar Ground Gecko is a great choice for any reptile collection.

🏡 Final Thoughts

At Homestead Exotics, we take pride in providing healthy, well-started reptiles and helping keepers understand how to care for them properly. The Paroedura pictus is an underrated gem—small, striking, and full of charm.

If you’re ready to add one to your collection, check out our current availability on MorphMarket:
👉 www.morphmarket.com/stores/homesteadexotics