Care guide

African Fat-Tailed Gecko Temperatures Explained

Quick answer

Aim for a warm-hide surface of about 88–92°F (31–33°C), a cool side around 75–80°F (24–27°C), and a modest night drop that keeps the room above about 68–70°F (20–21°C).

On this page
  1. Measure surfaces, not air
  2. Use a thermostat
  3. Too hot or too cold
Warm hide surface
88–92°F / 31–33°C
Cool side
75–80°F / 24–27°C

Measure surfaces, not air

A fat-tail digests by lying on a warm surface, so the floor temperature under the warm hide is the number that matters. Use a probe or infrared thermometer on the surface.

Use a thermostat

Every heat source needs a reptile thermostat. Pulse-proportional models hold the steadiest temperature.

Too hot or too cold

Panting, glass-surfing, and hiding on the cool side suggest too hot. Refusing food, regurgitating, and lethargy suggest too cold.