Why is My Leopard Gecko Hiding Constantly? Common Causes Explained

It can be worrying when you barely see your Leopard Gecko, leading you to wonder if they’re okay. This article will explore some of the common reasons why your Leopard Gecko might be hiding constantly.

Understanding Hiding Constantly in Leopard Geckos

While Leopard Geckos are naturally crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk), spending a significant amount of time hiding is normal. They are prey animals and seek shelter to feel safe and secure. However, excessive hiding, especially if it’s a sudden change in behavior, can indicate a problem that needs addressing. It’s important to understand your individual gecko’s baseline behavior to determine if their hiding is normal or a sign of something more.

Common Causes for Hiding Constantly

Here are several possible reasons why your Leopard Gecko might be hiding more than usual:

• Environmental Issues: Leopard Geckos are very sensitive to their environment. Improper temperature gradients, humidity levels, and lighting can all cause stress and increased hiding.

  • Temperature: If the basking spot is too cool, your gecko might hide to conserve energy. If it’s too hot, they might hide to escape the heat. Ensure your warm hide is between 88-92°F (31-33°C) and your cool hide is around 75-80°F (24-27°C).
  • Humidity: Too little humidity can cause shedding problems, and too much can lead to respiratory infections. Aim for a humidity level of 30-40% in most of the enclosure, increasing slightly during shedding.
  • Lighting: While Leopard Geckos don’t require UVB lighting to survive (they get their vitamin D3 from their diet), low-level UVB lighting may improve their overall health and well-being. If the lighting is too bright, they may hide to avoid it. Provide shaded areas.
  • Enclosure Size and Setup: A small enclosure or one lacking adequate hiding places can cause stress. Your gecko should have at least three hides: one on the warm side, one on the cool side, and one humid hide. They also need enough floor space. An adult Leopard Gecko requires a minimum of a 20-gallon long tank.

• Stress Factors: Stress can significantly impact a Leopard Gecko’s behavior.

  • Handling: Over-handling, especially if done improperly, can stress your gecko and cause them to hide more. Handle them gently and infrequently, especially when they’re new to your home.
  • Changes: Introducing new cage furniture, moving the enclosure, or changes in the room environment can all disrupt your gecko’s routine and make them feel insecure. Try to minimize changes and introduce them gradually.
  • Noise and Activity: Loud noises, vibrations, or constant activity around the enclosure can be stressful. Place the enclosure in a relatively quiet and low-traffic area.
  • Other Pets: The presence of other pets, especially those that are predatory (cats, dogs), can be a major stressor, even if they don’t directly interact with the gecko.

• Health Problems: Illness or pain can cause a Leopard Gecko to hide more than usual.

  • Illness: Any underlying illness can weaken your gecko and cause them to seek shelter.
  • Parasites: Internal and external parasites can cause discomfort and stress.
  • Shedding Issues: Difficult or incomplete sheds can be uncomfortable and lead to increased hiding. Ensure proper humidity to facilitate shedding.
  • Impaction: If your gecko is impacted (usually from ingesting substrate), it can cause pain and lethargy, leading to more hiding.

• Natural Instincts: Certain times of year or stages of life can naturally lead to increased hiding.

  • Breeding Season: During breeding season, males might be more reclusive, while females may hide more when gravid (pregnant).
  • Thermoregulation: Leopard Geckos are ectothermic and rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. They may hide more to either conserve heat or escape it.

When You Should Be Concerned

While hiding is normal, certain signs should prompt a visit to an exotic veterinarian:

• Lethargy: Noticeably decreased activity or responsiveness.
• Loss of Appetite: Refusal to eat for more than a few days.
• Weight Loss: A noticeable decrease in body mass.
• Physical Abnormalities: Swelling, lumps, lesions, or deformities.
• Changes in Feces/Urates: Diarrhea, constipation, blood in feces, or unusual urate color.
• Difficulty Shedding: Prolonged shedding issues despite proper humidity.
• Regurgitation: Throwing up food.

What to Do Next

If you’re concerned about your Leopard Gecko’s hiding behavior, here are some steps you can take:

• Double-check all habitat parameters: Verify the temperature, humidity, and lighting are within the recommended ranges. Use accurate thermometers and hygrometers.
• Observe closely for other symptoms: Look for any of the warning signs listed above.
• Reduce potential stressors: Minimize handling, keep the enclosure in a quiet area, and avoid sudden changes.
• Ensure proper diet and hydration: Offer a varied diet of appropriately sized insects and provide fresh water daily.
• Consider recent changes: Think about any recent changes in the environment, routine, or diet that might be causing stress.
• Consult an exotic veterinarian: If you are concerned, or if the behavior persists or worsens, schedule an appointment with a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s health.

Conclusion

Understanding why your Leopard Gecko is hiding constantly requires careful observation and attention to their environment. While some hiding is normal, excessive or sudden changes in behavior can indicate an underlying issue. If you’re concerned, it’s always best to consult with an exotic veterinarian to ensure your gecko is healthy and happy. Remember that online resources are not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.