The Northern Marbled Velvet Gecko (Oedura marmorata) is a bold-patterned, softly textured gecko from northern and central Australia. Like all velvet geckos it has velvety, non-overlapping scales that give it a distinctive look and feel. It is a semi-arboreal species, spending time both on rock faces and in crevices and amongst branches, and it is confident and active in comparison to many other Australian geckos. Adults reach 12 to 16 cm.
In Queensland a wildlife keeper's licence is required. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide before purchasing.
Enclosure
Northern Marbled Velvet Geckos are semi-arboreal and need both vertical surfaces and ground-level cover. An enclosure around 45 x 30 x 45 cm or similar suits a single adult well. Provide vertical cork bark slabs, angled branches, and rock arrangements that create crevices and climbing opportunities at various heights. Include ground-level hides as well. A secure lid is essential.
Use a substrate that holds some moisture at the cool end without becoming waterlogged, such as a sand and soil mix or coconut husk. A small humid hide helps with shedding. Browse our enclosures and reptile supplies.
Heating
This species is from warmer northern and central Australia and needs a proper gradient.
- Warm end: 30 to 32°C
- Cool end: 22 to 25°C
- Night: allow to drop several degrees into the low-to-mid 20s°C
Use a thermostatically controlled heat source and verify temperatures with a thermometer at both ends. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
Lighting and UVB
As a nocturnal species, intense UVB is not required. Low-level UVB (2.0 to 5.0) on a 10 to 12 hour day/night cycle is beneficial and recommended. If UVB is not provided, consistent dietary supplementation with calcium and vitamin D3 becomes especially important. Turn lighting off at night. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Humidity
Moderate humidity of around 50 to 60% suits this species. Provide a humid hide lined with damp substrate and lightly mist one area of the enclosure every few days. Allow the enclosure to dry partially between mistings.
Feeding
An insectivore. Offer appropriately sized live insects, gut-loaded for 24 to 48 hours before use.
- Suitable prey: crickets, small woodies, roaches, and the occasional small waxworm as a treat.
- Juveniles: every 1 to 2 days.
- Adults: every 2 to 3 days, or a few times per week.
Dust insects with calcium at most feedings and use a reptile multivitamin periodically. Provide fresh water at all times.
Browse our live feeders and reptile supplements.
Breeding
Marbled velvet geckos breed readily in captivity following a cooler winter rest with reduced temperatures. Females typically lay clutches of two eggs through the warmer months. A moist laying hide encourages safe egg placement. Eggs can be incubated at 26 to 30°C. Hatchlings are independent from birth.
Handling and Temperament
These geckos are more confident than many small natives and can become quite settled with regular, careful handling. Handle gently, low over a soft surface, and never grab or restrain by the tail. Like all geckos they can autotomise (drop) the tail if startled or grabbed, and while it regrows it will not look the same.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 12 to 16 cm |
| Lifespan | 15+ years |
| Warm end | 30 to 32°C |
| Cool end | 22 to 25°C |
| Humidity | 50 to 60% |
| UVB | Recommended (2.0 to 5.0, low intensity) |
| Feeding (juvenile) | Every 1 to 2 days |
| Feeding (adult) | Every 2 to 3 days |
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- Heating and Thermostats
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- Live Feeders
- Reptile Supplements
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Individual animals vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Always consult a qualified reptile vet for health concerns. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Northern Marbled Velvet Geckos.
