Feeding mourning geckos involves a straightforward diet primarily consisting of a specialized fruit-based gecko diet supplemented with insects, making them quite easy to care for.
Dietary Staples for Mourning Geckos
In captivity, mourning geckos thrive on a diet that mimics their natural consumption of fruits and small insects. The cornerstone of their diet is Crested Gecko Diet (CGD), specifically a fruit-based formula. This provides a balanced nutritional foundation, including essential vitamins and minerals.
Essential Supplements and Feeding Schedule
To ensure a complete and varied diet, the fruit CGD should be regularly supplemented with live insects. Many successful mourning gecko keepers follow a simple yet effective rotation:
- Fruit CGD: Offered regularly as the main dietary component. This commercially prepared diet is designed to meet most of their nutritional needs.
- Fruit Flies: These small insects are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients for mourning geckos, especially given their small size. They should be offered as a supplement to the CGD.
- Calcium + D3 Powder: A vital supplement for bone health and proper calcium metabolism. A small capful of this powder should be provided periodically, often dusted onto their food, to prevent metabolic bone disease and ensure overall well-being.
This low-maintenance feeding schedule is a significant factor contributing to their appeal as easy-to-care-for pets, allowing keepers to provide comprehensive nutrition with minimal fuss.