The Common Thick-tailed Gecko (Underwoodisaurus milii), also commonly known as the Barking Gecko for the sharp call it produces when threatened, is a solid, characterful ground-dweller found across a wide range of southern and eastern Australia. Dark brown to black with bold cream or yellow spots, it is a striking and hardy species that makes an excellent beginner gecko. Adults typically reach 12 to 15 cm.
In Queensland a wildlife keeper's licence is required. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide before purchasing.
Enclosure
Thick-tailed geckos are ground-dwellers and do not need tall enclosures. Focus on floor space and ground-level furniture. An enclosure around 45 x 30 x 30 cm suits a single adult or pair well. Provide a burrowing substrate such as a sand and soil mix or coconut husk at least 3 to 5 cm deep, and plenty of ground-level hides including flat rocks, cork bark, and timber pieces. Include a small moist hide lined with damp coconut husk or sphagnum moss to assist with shedding. Avoid keeping multiple males together as they will fight.
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Heating
Thick-tailed geckos come from cooler, drier habitats than many Australian reptiles and prefer a modest thermal gradient. Do not overheat them.
- Warm end: 26 to 28°C
- Cool end: 20 to 22°C
- Night: allow temperatures to drop by several degrees, down to the mid-teens to low 20s°C. This species tolerates cool nights well and seasonal cooling is beneficial for breeding.
A thermostatically controlled low-wattage heat mat or ceramic heat emitter on one end works well. Verify temperatures with a thermometer at both ends. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
Lighting and UVB
Thick-tailed geckos are nocturnal. A low-intensity 2.0 UVB on a 10 to 12 hour day/night cycle is beneficial and is recommended, particularly if supplementation alone is being relied on for vitamin D3. If you choose not to provide UVB, ensure consistent and correct calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation at feeding. Turn all lighting off at night.
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Feeding
Thick-tailed geckos are insectivores. Offer a variety of appropriately sized live insects, keeping prey to around the width of the gecko's head.
- Suitable prey: crickets, small woodies, roaches, and the occasional small worm as a treat.
- Juveniles: every 1 to 2 days.
- Adults: a few times per week.
Gut-load feeder insects for 24 to 48 hours before offering. Dust insects with calcium at most feedings and use a reptile multivitamin periodically. Provide a shallow water dish at all times.
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Breeding
Thick-tailed geckos breed readily in captivity following a cool winter rest period with reduced temperatures and shorter days. Females typically lay clutches of two eggs through the warmer months. A moist laying hide encourages the female to lay in a safe, easily located spot. Eggs can be incubated at around 26 to 28°C, which is cooler than many gecko species require, reflecting this species' cooler climate origin. Hatchlings are independent from birth.
Handling and Temperament
Despite its defensive bark and bluff, the thick-tailed gecko is generally non-aggressive and becomes reasonably tolerant of careful handling. Handle gently and calmly, always low over a soft surface. Never grab or restrain by the tail: all geckos can drop their tail as a defence response. The bark and defensive posture is mostly theatre, and most animals calm down quickly once they realise they are not in danger.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 12 to 15 cm |
| Lifespan | 15+ years |
| Warm end | 26 to 28°C |
| Cool end | 20 to 22°C |
| UVB | Recommended (2.0, low intensity) |
| Feeding (juvenile) | Every 1 to 2 days |
| Feeding (adult) | A few times per week |
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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 Thick-tailed Geckos.
