Sexing Leopard Geckos

Note: while the instructions here pertain to leopard geckos, the sex of many other species of gecko can be determined by similar means.

• Juvenile leopard geckos can be very difficult to sex. Typically, you can sex leopard geckos at around 3-4 months with experience, and it gets easier as they get older (sexing is usually easier after about 6 months of age).
• The differences are quite distinct but are much easier to see with experience or if you have geckos of each sex to compare.

Pre-Anal Pores
Male have a dintinct v-shaped row of pre-anal pores in front of the vent (cloaca). As the gecko matures, they become quite prominent and exude a waxy material. Females have a similar row of very small pored, but they are not nearly as prominent and are barely noticeable, and they do not exude the waxy substance.

Hemipenile Bulges
Males have two distince bulges behind the vent; one on either side of the base of the tail. This is where the hemipenes (male reproductive organs) are located.

Femoral Pores
Males also have enlarged pores on the underside of their rear legs (thighs).

Pictures to help you sex geckos: both of these sites have photos that illustrate the differences clearly:

• Reptic Zone - Sexing Leopard Geckos
• Reptile Care- Sexing Leopard Geckos