top of page
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Instagram

🦎 Gargoyle Gecko Care Sheet

​

📌 Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Rhacodactylus auriculatus

  • Common Name: Gargoyle gecko

  • Native Habitat: New Caledonia (South Pacific islands)

  • Temperament: Docile, hardy, and slightly more terrestrial than crested geckos

  • Size: 6–8 inches (including tail)

  • Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity

​

​

🏠 Enclosure & Habitat

  • Juveniles: 10–20 gallon vertical tank

  • Adults: Minimum 20-gallon tall terrarium; 18x18x24 inches is ideal

  • Substrate: Coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or bioactive mix; avoid loose particles for hatchlings

  • Decor: Branches, cork bark, vines, and foliage for climbing and hiding

  • Humidity: 50–70%; mist once or twice daily

  • Temperature Range:

    • Daytime: 72–78°F

    • Nighttime: 65–72°F

  • Lighting: No UVB required, but low-level UVB can be beneficial; maintain a 12-hour light/dark cycle

  • Ventilation: Good airflow is essential to prevent mold and respiratory issues

​

​

🍽️ Feeding

  • Diet: Omnivorous; eats commercial gecko diet (CGD), fruit puree, and occasional insects

  • Feeding Schedule:

    • CGD: Offer every other day

    • Insects (e.g., crickets, dubia roaches): 1–2 times per week, dusted with calcium

  • Feeding Time: Evening or night (they’re crepuscular)

  • Water: Provide a shallow dish and mist enclosure for drinking droplets

​

💧 Hydration & Humidity

  • Mist enclosure daily to maintain humidity

  • Monitor with a hygrometer

  • Provide water droplets on leaves and surfaces for licking

​

​

🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot clean daily

  • Replace uneaten food every 24–48 hours

  • Deep clean enclosure and replace substrate monthly

​

​

🧑‍⚕️ Health & Handling

  • Signs of good health: Active at dusk/dawn, clear eyes, regular shedding, strong grip

  • Common issues: Dehydration, stuck shed, metabolic bone disease, tail loss (can regenerate)

  • Handling tips: Gentle and brief at first; they may jump or cling—handle over soft surfaces

​

​

🛒 Supply Checklist

  • Tall, secure terrarium with screen top

  • Branches, vines, and hides

  • Substrate and misting bottle

  • Thermometer and hygrometer

  • Commercial CGD and feeder insects

  • Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements

bottom of page