I work at a local pet store and whenever anyone asks if they can house different species together, no matter what they are, I tell them no and rattle off all the reasons of why it is not a good idea (I'm sure we all know those reasons). However I do have to say that I am guilty of doing just that. I house my White's Tree Frogs with my African Fat-Tailed gecko. Yes, I know this is more than likely not a good idea, but here was my thinking. They have very similar housing requirements, the AFT remains on the ground since he cannot climb and the White's spend all of their time off the ground. Since they spend their time in two different areas, this was the only reason I thought it might work. Also, the frogs were large enough that there was no way they could be considered a snack and there is always plenty of food in the tank so there is never competition. They have been together for 1 1/2 years with no problems. Occasionally they even share the humid hide. Now that's not to say that it doesn't make me nervous any time they come within close contact, but none of them have ever had a scratch from the other. Also, I had a small second tank setup for a long time just in case I had to separate them at any moment.
This brings me back to the beginning. It's never a "good" idea to house different species together, but of course the idea has crossed many peoples' minds. Yes, I got lucky, but there are more horror stories out there than happy endings. However, I've also learned you can only beat people over the head so many times with a recommendation, but sometimes they need to learn on their own. Just don't let it be at the cost of your little guy. Whatever you do, be prepared for the consequences.





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