Leopard Gecko - Reproduction

Reproduction

They are also known to have temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). Research shows that more females can be produced in predominantly cool temperatures (about 26–30 °C (79–86 °F)) and very warm temperatures (about 34–35 °C (93–95 °F)). It was recorded that males can be produced at the intermediate temperatures (about 31–33 °C (88–91 °F)). Females born in the higher temperatures differed from those who were born in the lower temperatures hormonally and behaviorally. Those born in the warmer temperatures expressed more aggressive behavior. These are known as "hot females" and are often determined to be infertile, that is unable to reproduce.

Sexual maturity occurs between eight to nine months of age. Leopard geckos will breed as single pairs or in a group consisting of one male and several females. Females may need to interact with a male and assess him before she chooses him as her mate. During breeding, the male will rattle his tail, which tells the female he is ready to mate. He will chase her and when she is caught, he will mount on her for mating. The male will continually bite the top of her head. In rare instances, her tail may become detached at this time. Both these mechanisms are normal. Though a "dropped" or "detached" tail will grow back, its regenerated form may be slightly malformed and will most likely look very different from the original. Regenerated tails are often smooth and short, with a bulb-like appearance. (See image in the bottom left of the "Characteristics" section.) Tail dropping is highly discouraged.

Leopard geckos will breed typically in the summer. Females can store sperm over the course of their breeding season, so they can produce up to 3 clutches from one or two copulations, therefore, the male is not needed for reproductive success after the first or second copulation. Once the female is pregnant, she will need an abundance of calcium for health and to ensure that the eggs calcify properly. She can lay about 6 to 8 clutches, which consists of two eggs in each clutch. They will normally lay two eggs approximately 21 to 28 days after mating. After 45 to 60 days, droplets of moisture will appear on the shell and the shell will begin to shrink and partially collapse. These are indications that the eggs will hatch. Baby leopard geckos will have an “egg tooth,” a calcareous tip at the end of its snout to help break their egg shell. Their “egg tooth” will fall off within one to two days. In addition to this, their skin will shed within 24 hours of hatching, usually. The leopard gecko hatchling will not be able to eat until after the first shedding.