10 Fun Enrichment Ideas to Keep Your Leopard Gecko Happy

If your leopard gecko just sits around all day, looking bored, it might be time to shake things up. Enrichment isn’t just for dogs or birds—geckos need it too.

In this post, I’ll share 10 fun and easy enrichment ideas that can turn your gecko’s tank into a much more exciting place.

These don’t take much time or money, but they can make a big difference in your gecko’s health and behavior.

1. Climbing Branches and Ledges

Leopard geckos may not be tree climbers, but they do enjoy short climbs. Adding cork bark, driftwood, or flat rocks gives them new things to explore.

Just make sure anything you add is stable. You don’t want anything falling on your gecko.

2. Multiple Hide-and-Seek Spots

One hide is never enough. Give your gecko options—warm hide, cool hide, moist hide, and maybe even a rocky cave for fun.

Different textures and placements encourage movement and exploration.

3. A Dig Box

Leopard geckos like to dig when given the chance. A small container filled with eco earth or topsoil lets them burrow and feel like they’re in the wild.

Just keep it clean and avoid any fertilizers or chemicals.

4. Live Insect Hunts

Watching a gecko chase live bugs never gets old—and it’s good for them too. Crickets, dubia roaches, or even the occasional waxworm provide stimulation and exercise.

Feeding with tongs every time is boring. Let them chase once in a while.

5. Scent Trails

Rub a feeder insect on a rock or branch and let your gecko follow the scent. It turns feeding into a mini treasure hunt.

You can even swap tank items with another gecko (if both are healthy) to give new smells to explore.

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6. Puzzle Feeding

Try placing food under a paper towel or inside a toilet paper roll. Your gecko will have to work a little to get it.

It doesn’t need to be complicated—just something to make dinner less of a lazy grab.

7. Rotating Decor

Swap out tank decorations every few weeks. This keeps the environment from feeling “stale” and encourages new behaviors.

You don’t need to buy new stuff. Just rearrange what you already have.

8. Low Gecko Hammock

Some geckos love hammocks, especially ones that hang low and feel secure. Choose one made from soft mesh or fleece.

Place it near a warm spot or under a hide roof to make it feel cozy.

9. Short Mirror Time

You can try placing a small mirror near the tank for a few minutes. Some geckos get curious seeing their “twin.”

Keep it short and watch how your gecko reacts. If it seems stressed, remove it right away.

10. Safe Out-of-Tank Time

Set up a mini playpen with soft flooring, hides, and safe decorations. Let your gecko roam under your supervision.

It’s a change of scene that stimulates their senses—but always keep an eye on them and avoid cold floors.