FYI - Beardies (P. vitticeps) live an average of 8 years. Leopards are well documented living over 30 years. I have one that will turn 15 this July!
I hate to see someone not keep leopards because of lame husbandry advice. Unfortunately people keep using sand with younger ones. I recommend folks wait at least one year before using sand so their leopard becomes well established and you become familiar with their routines,- eating and pooping in particular. Getting a new, young leopard and not having any experience is a very bad combo when using sand. The young leopards are curious, and they will often ingest a good bit of sand just because of that. Additionally, they will start gobbling down the sand when they don't feel well, and before you know it, they are full of sand and you are at the vet. At the one year point, you may try sand, use only fine grade sand. This is Reptisand or Jurassic sand types, not brand X that says it cannot harm leopards because it contains calcium. This is just plain misleading. I have even heard from local vets that beardies get impacted from that stuff, not just leopards. Once you have the sand in, be aware of the poop. At first it may be mostly sand, mainly because they are curious. If this does not go away in a week or so then get rid of the sand. If they stop pooping altogether then also get rid of the sand. If they have ANY health issue, get rid of the sand! I recommend Costco shop towels, or the more attractive Repticage carpet sold by Zoo Med. Comes in cool colors and is reusable! Good luck, and don't be discouraged by this negative experience. Sadly, it was easily avoidable. Regards, Julie Bergman http://www.geckoranch.com ########################################################################### THE GLOBAL GECKO ASSOCIATION LISTSERV WebSite: www.gekkota.com Archive: [EMAIL PROTECTED]/ The GGA takes no responsibility for the contents of these postings. ###########################################################################
