Description: Also known as the Dwarf Fat-Tailed Gecko, 2 similar species are known. Both are from northeast Africa; H. africanus originates from the border area between Kenya and Tanzania to Ethiopia; H. corni (the East African clawed gecko) occurs in Ethiopia and Somalia.

Both are found in savanna and semi-desert areas where they live underground in moist places, often in or near sandy washes. These are slow moving, terrestrial geckos that leave their burrows late in the evening to hunt termites and other insects; activity increases during rainy periods. Toe pads are absent but they have small claws that are used for digging. The color is a rich mix of browns, reddish-browns and tans in a wavy banded pattern. Adult size is about 4", sometimes larger. Males are territorial towards other males and should not be kept together in a small enclosure. Females get along fine in groups.

This species has gained a reputation for having a short life span; this may be due to their high humidity requirement, which is odd for desert/ savanna dwellers. Once this information is known, greater success should become common.

Temperature: Daytime 75 to 85°F with a small drop at night. A daytime hotspot around 88°F is beneficial. A temperature gradient throughout the enclosure should be provided.

Humidity: High – 70 to 80%. The cooler side of the enclosure should be misted at least daily to provide a humidity gradient. The substrate must remain somewhat moist (but not wet or soggy) at all times.

Feeding: In the wild, these geckos rely on the seasonal hatching of termites when they can feed heavily. At other times, little food is available besides the occasional beetle so they remain mostly inactive. Feed them small crickets and mealworms along with a variety of other insects. A good vitamin/mineral supplement should be given twice a week for adults and more often for young, growing geckos. Clean water should be available most of the time along with misting to allow them to lick up water droplets.

Habitat: A 10-gallon tank will suffice for 1 or 2 but a 15-gallon would be better. More floor space is needed instead of height. Set it up as a savanna style habitat with a fairly deep substrate of potting soil mixed with sand for them to burrow into. Keep it somewhat moist but not wet or soggy. Caves and other hiding places should be provided but be careful to place heavy objects in a way that will prevent tunneling cave-in accidents.

Breeding: Generally, 2 soft-shelled eggs are buried in moist places.

ENJOY YOUR PET LIFE FORMS, Dave & Donna