Introduction: How to Tame and Hand-Feed Geckos!

Here in Hawaii, wild geckos are everywhere.  Because of it's bright, neon green color, the most commonly seen gecko in Hawaii is the GOLD DUST DAY GECKO which was originally imported to Hawaii from Madagascar as pets, but now thrive in the wild tropical forests.  Geckos are naturally curious creatures and will tame easily with patience.

First; find a location where you will want to feed your new friends.  I chose my cable box as they seem to like the warmth it puts out.

Second.  Drop a small amount of honey on a shallow dish to attract them.  I used a plastic tupperware cover.  (I placed it on a CD case for contrast when I took the picture, to make it easier to see in the photo.)

Third.  Place the honey on the cable box and allow them to come over for a drink.  Doing this every day let's them know you are not a threat and will be bringing them something.

Fourth.   After several days, place mealworms on the 'feeding' lid.  They will start to feed on these every day.

Fifth.  Once they start to realize that you and food are connected, they will approach your hand and take the mealworm from your hand.  I feed the 'girls' 1-2 mealworms, and the 'boys' 2-3 mealworms as they are much larger and have a bigger appetite.

And last, but not least, they will start to come around and wait for you at the same time every day.  I usually have 3 or 4 'diners' come by every day.  

IMPORTANT!  Remember, though, you have now taught them to depend on you, so please be responsible and like any other pet, make sure you feed them religiously.  If you do not plan on continuing the feeding, don't start to begin with.  That, would be cruel. 

You can see a short video on You-Tube showing a couple of 'diners' here:
<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1pzYq2sGATU?hl=en&fs=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

If that doesn't work, try this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pzYq2sGATU

If you like this Instructable, please vote for it in the Pet Contest.  As you can see by the attached photos, I REALLY need to win one of those cameras!  lol


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