There are a number of interesting facts about leopard geckos you may not know, but are worth considering before you bring one home.

Leopard geckos can live for a long time. Most geckos live to be at least 20 years old, but some have been known to live for 30 years. That means, if you get a leopard gecko for your child, you’ll likely be stuck taking care of it when your kid leaves to go to college.

Hear a barking sound? It might not be coming from your neighbor’s dog. Leopard dogs have been known to bark when they are agitated. Their tails can also be completely dropped from their bodies, providing them with a chance to escape. But don’t worry, their tail will eventually grow back.

To learn more about this fascinating animal, call your veterinary clinic Newport Beach, CA.