The Exo Terra Leopard Gecko Starter Kit is a complete 45 x 45 x 30 cm setup built specifically around one species — terrarium, lighting, heating, substrate, decor and a care guide in one box.

Why Leopard Geckos Suit Beginners

They are among the best first reptiles, and for good reasons. They are docile and tolerate gentle handling, they eat readily, they stay a manageable size, and — unlike most lizards — they are crepuscular rather than sun-baskers, so their lighting needs are simpler.

That last point explains the design of this kit. Leopard geckos take their warmth from ground heat, from rock and sand that held the day's sun, which is why the kit provides a heat mat under the base rather than a powerful overhead basking lamp. The low 30 cm height is deliberate too: they are terrestrial and use floor area, not height.

What Is Included

• Exo Terra Natural Terrarium Small/Low (PT2603) — 45 x 45 x 30 cm
• Day/Night LED Fixture Small (PT2335)
• Heat Mat 8W (PT2016)
• Sand Mat Small (PT2562)
• Terrarium Thermometer (PT2455)
• Water Dish Medium (PT2802)
• Reptile Cave Medium (PT2852)
• Informative care guide

Terrarium Features

• Front window ventilation
• Dual doors for escape-free access
• Waterproof bottom and raised bottom frame — designed for a heat mat underneath
• Stainless steel mesh cover with an easy-twist screen cover lock
• Locks to prevent escape
• Closable inlets for wires and tubing
• Background included
• Fits the Compact Top Small

Getting the Heat Right

This is the part that matters most.

• Fit the heat mat under one end only, never the whole base. The gecko needs a warm side and a cool side to move between.
• Use a thermostat with the heat mat. An unregulated mat can exceed safe surface temperatures, and geckos press their bellies against warm ground — belly burns are a well-documented injury and the animal does not reliably move away.
• Check the warm-end surface temperature with the included thermometer before the gecko goes in.
• Add a humid hide — a small container with damp moss. Leopard geckos need one to shed properly, and retained shed around the toes can cut off circulation and cost them digits.

Also Worth Having

• Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements for dusting live food
• A second hide at the cool end, so the gecko never has to choose between hiding and being the right temperature