Large variable Oedura. Tail slender and round in cross-section to plump and weakly depressed. Ground colour dark purplish brown. Juveniles bear simple pattern of broad, prominent yellow to cream bands; 5 or 6 between nape and hips, and 4 or 5 on tail. Dark band extends from snout, through eye, curving to meet its opposite on base of head. This is margined by yellow to cream band from lips, curving on nape to form 1st pale band. Pattern becomes broken and more complex with age. Pale bands may develop dark centres and ragged edges, and irregular pale spotting tends to develop on ground colour. Occasionally all transverse pattern is replaced by irregular pale flecks or variegations. Ventral surfaces whitish.
Arboreal and rock-inhabiting. See genus. Widely distributed in subhumid to arid areas west of the Great Dividing Range between northern NSW and the eastern Kimberley region of WA. A separate population occurs in arid Pilbara to the Gascoyne regions of WA.
Terrarium: Western Marbled Velvet Geckos geckos are an arboreal species, meaning they have great climbing abilities that need to be catered to. An enclosure with height for them to feel as if they’re far enough away from the ground, while also still providing enough ground space for them to catch their food is important. A terrarium measuring 45x45x60 (WxDxH) is appropriate to house up to three adults in.
Lighting and Heating: Naturally, Marbled Velvet Geckos will be out in small shrubs and trees basking during the day, exposing them to natural sunlight. UVB lighting is important to provide, alongside a daytime heat lamp. You want to have a day time basking hot spot temperature of 35°C with it dropping down to 25°C in the cool end. To monitor the temperatures inside the enclosure a thermometer should always be used. A heat rock can be used to provide tummy heat.
Furnishings: branches and vines can be used to create an elevated basking spot. Artificial foliage throughout the enclosure will allow the Marbled Velvet Gecko plenty of hiding spots and coverage, a water bowl placed in the cool end, and red sand kept at the correct moister is our recommended substrate.
Food in captivity: Western Marbled Velvet Geckos are insectivores, feeding on appropriate sized crickets and woodies. Food items will need to be dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements.
The essentials:
- Terrarium of appropriate size
- UVB lighting
- Daytime basking globe
- Thermometer
- Water bowl
- Substrate
- Hide caves
- Branches and vines
- Foliage for shelter
- Calcium and vitamin supplements