Shedding in Leaf-tailed Geckos

Shedding, also known as ecdysis, is a natural and vital process for leaf-tailed geckos (Uroplatus species) and other reptiles. It involves the periodic shedding of the outer layer of skin, allowing the gecko to grow, maintain healthy skin, and remove any parasites or damaged skin cells. While shedding is a normal part of a leaf-tailed gecko’s life, it can occasionally present challenges. This article covers why leaf-tailed geckos shed their skin, how to care for them during shedding, and what to do if shedding problems arise.

What Is the Shedding Process Called, and Why Do Leaf-Tailed Geckos Shed Their Skin?

The process of shedding is called ecdysis, during which a leaf-tailed gecko replaces its old, worn-out outer skin with a new layer. In reptiles, shedding is essential for several reasons:

• Growth: As leaf-tailed geckos grow, their skin does not stretch. Shedding allows them to replace the old, tight skin with a new, larger layer that accommodates growth.
• Skin Health: Shedding helps remove dead skin cells, dirt, and any parasites that may be present on the skin’s surface, promoting better overall skin health.
• Repairing Skin Damage: If the gecko’s skin has been scratched, scraped, or otherwise damaged, shedding allows for a fresh, undamaged layer of skin to emerge.

Shedding in Newly Hatched Leaf-Tailed Geckos

Newly hatched leaf-tailed geckos begin the shedding process almost immediately upon exiting the egg. This “first shed” is an essential part of their initial development:

• Timing: Hatchlings undergo their first shed within the first 24 hours or so after hatching. The process helps them transition from the egg’s moist environment to the outside world.
• Complete Shedding: It is important that the first shed is complete, as any retained skin, especially on the toes or tail, can cause problems as the young gecko continues to grow. While removing a stuck shed from a baby ebenaui can be very tricky, it has to be done. Trust us; we know the challenge well.
• Supportive Care: Ensure that newly hatched geckos have high humidity in their enclosure at night (around 80-90%) to support proper shedding and help the delicate skin come off easily. However, you want their enclosure to dry out completely during the day. Funn enough, maintaining too much moisture in the enclosure can make it difficult for them to shed.

How Often Do Leaf-Tailed Geckos Shed?

The frequency of shedding in leaf-tailed geckos varies based on their age and growth rate:

• Juveniles: Younger geckos shed more frequently, sometimes every 3-4 weeks, due to their rapid growth.
• Adults: Depending on the individual, adult leaf-tailed geckos shed less frequently, typically every 4-6 weeks or even less often.

What to Do If a Leaf-Tailed Gecko Doesn’t Shed Properly

Incomplete or problematic shedding, known as dysecdysis, can happen for various reasons, such as low humidity, stress, or health issues. If you notice that your leaf-tailed gecko has stuck shed, follow these steps to help them:

1. Increase Humidity: Boost the enclosure’s humidity to 80-90% by misting more frequently or using a fogger. This can help loosen the stuck skin and encourage natural shedding.
2. Use a Humidity Box: Place the gecko in a humidity box temporarily. This can be a plastic container with a secure lid, small air holes, and moist paper towels or sphagnum moss inside. The high-humidity environment helps soften the stuck skin.
3. Gently Assist Removal: If the stuck shed is around sensitive areas, such as the toes, tail, or eyes, you may need to help remove it manually. Dampen a cotton swab with warm water and gently roll it over the stuck skin. Never remove dry skin, as this can damage the new skin underneath.
4. Provide a Rough Surface: Adding rough branches or natural bark to the enclosure can help the gecko rub off the stuck shed on its own.

Problems If Stuck Shed Is Not Removed Properly

If the stuck shed is not dealt with, it can lead to several health problems:

• Constriction of Toes, Tail, or Limbs: Stuck shed on the toes, tail, or other extremities can tighten as it dries, cutting off circulation. This can cause tissue damage and necrosis and even lead to loss of digits or parts of the tail.
• Eye Problems: Retained shed around the eyes can cause irritation, infection, or impaired vision.
• Skin Infections: Skin that does not shed properly may develop infections due to trapped moisture, bacteria, or fungi under the old skin.

Addressing stuck sheds promptly and ensuring a suitable environment for the gecko is key to avoiding these problems.

How to Prevent Shedding Issues in Leaf-Tailed Geckos

Preventing shedding problems in leaf-tailed geckos is mainly about providing the correct environmental conditions:

1. Maintain Proper Humidity: Ensure that the enclosure maintains a humidity level of 70-90%, depending on the species. Humidity should be on the higher end during shedding periods.
2. Regular Misting: Mist the enclosure 1-3 times daily, depending on the gecko’s species and the enclosure setup. This helps with humidity and provides moisture for the gecko to drink.
3. Use Live Plants and Natural Substrates: Live plants and substrates like sphagnum moss or coconut fiber help maintain higher humidity levels in the enclosure.
4. Provide a Variety of Surfaces: In the enclosure, offer rough branches, bark, or cork tubes, giving the gecko options to rub against during shedding.
5. Monitor Shed Cycles: Pay attention to the shedding frequency and ensure that the gecko is shedding completely each time. Address any potential issues early on.

When to See a Veterinarian

If your leaf-tailed gecko continues to have problems shedding despite your efforts, or if you notice signs of infection, swelling, or open wounds, it is important to consult a reptile veterinarian for further advice and treatment.

Shedding is a natural and necessary process for leaf-tailed geckos that allows them to grow, maintain healthy skin, and remove any potential skin parasites. While most geckos shed without issues, stuck sheds can sometimes occur, especially in low-humidity conditions or if the gecko is stressed. By maintaining proper humidity, providing a suitable enclosure, and knowing how to address any shedding problems, keepers can help ensure that their Uroplatus geckos stay healthy and thrive.

We provide the highest quality care for our leaf-tailed geckos at Nealon Reptiles, ensuring they shed properly and maintain optimal health. Proper husbandry practices and attention to the needs of these unique reptiles are essential for keeping them happy and healthy in captivity.