Eublepharis, the scientific name for leopard geckos, are fascinating reptiles that are gaining popularity among pet owners and reptile aficionados. These tiny lizards are native to arid areas of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and certain portions of India. They have evolved to live in stony deserts and dry grasslands, among other places. Their gentle temperament, simplicity of maintenance, and dazzling palette of color morphs have made them popular pets in recent decades. Natural Habitat and Origins The evolutionary history of leopard geckos spans millions of years. They are categorized under the genus Eublepharis, which is part of the family Eublepharidae and include a number of other species that are indigenous to various regions of Asia. Leopard geckos, in contrast to many other gecko species, have movable eyelids and don't have the sticky toe pads that other geckos have; instead, they depend on their claws for traction. Arid and semi-arid areas with little flora, such stony deserts and dry grasslands, make up their native habitat. They are nocturnal animals that hide from the intense heat of the day in burrows, cracks, or under rocks. At night, they come out to seek food. Physical attributes The spotted or "leopard-like" pattern on the skin of leopard geckos, which varies in color and intensity depending on the specific morph, gives them a remarkable look. Although leopard geckos of the natural kind are usually yellowish-brown in hue with dark brown or black spots, captive breeding has yielded an astounding variety of morphs with vivid colors and patterns, such as albino, hypo, patternless, and more. Leopard geckos range in length from six to ten inches on average, with males often being somewhat bigger and more robust than females. They have long, tapering tails that they may detach as a defensive mechanism if attacked, however this should be avoided since it can be stressful for the gecko. They also have sturdy bodies and very small legs.
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