Gargoyle Gecko Care Sheet

Common name : gargoyle gecko  

Species name :  Rhacodactylus auriculatus 

 or family :  rhacodactylus  

PR  keeper level : 3 

PR handler level : 3 

Species background or natural history : this species is a very popular arboreal gecko species due to its calm nature and ease of care .   

Physical description : this species gets around 8-9 inches long and comes in different shades of grey , creme , red and other colors . They have have prehensile tails that they use when climbing .  

Distribution : this species is found in New Caledonia and some surrounding islands .  

Life span : this Species can live more than 15 years if cared for properly .  

Caging : this species can be kept in screen and glass cages . Arboreal cages such as an expert terra terrarium are best , since this species lives high in the trees and is constantly jumping . 

 Cage decor : coconut fiber or cypress mulch are great substrates for this species . Several fake plants and wood pieces should be used since this species lives in trees and is never really on the floor . 

 Heating and lighting : this species should be kept at 65 - 85 degrees and do not need any heating or lighting . A heat pad can be used to achieve proper temperatures if do think they are too cold .

 Humidity and water : this species needs to be sprayed 3 times a day , so they can drink water from drops on the terrarium walls and on the fake plants . The humidity should be at least 60 percent or higher which can be achieved by the 3 daily sprays . 

 Diet and feeding : this species should be fed crickets of the appropriate size and can also be fed powdered diets such as repashy or Pangea .

 Supplements : this species needs calcium with d3 once a week . 

 Breeding : in order to breed a female must be paired with a male for a few days , the female must then be removed due to the males being a little aggressive . If mating is successful the female will lay eggs 20-35 days after . A proper lay box must be available so then female can easily lay eggs in .

 Handling your new pet : this species is great for handling but If it is  grabbed by the tail this species will drop its tail and it will not grow back .