Gargoyle Gecko Care Sheet: Everything You Need to Know
Gargoyle geckos (Rhacodactylus auriculatus), native to New Caledonia, are one of the most popular pet reptiles due to their striking appearance, ease of care, and unique personalities. These nocturnal geckos are ideal for beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike. With the right setup and care, gargoyle geckos can thrive and live for 15-20 years in captivity.
Basic Information
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Common Name: Gargoyle Gecko
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Scientific Name: Rhacodactylus auriculatus
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Lifespan: 15-20 years
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Size: 8-10 inches (including tail)
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Temperament: Docile, but can be flighty when young
Housing Requirements
Enclosure Size
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Juveniles: Minimum 12x12x18-inch enclosure.
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Adults: Minimum 18x18x24-inch enclosure, though larger is always better for enrichment.
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Type: Glass terrariums with front-opening doors and proper ventilation are ideal.
Substrate
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Best Options: Coconut fiber, soil blends, or bioactive substrates.
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Depth: 2-3 inches to support live plants and maintain humidity.
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Avoid: Loose sand or substrates that may cause impaction.
Enclosure Features
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Climbing Structures: Provide branches, cork bark, and vines for climbing and resting.
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Hides: Include multiple hides at various levels for security.
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Plants: Use live or artificial non-toxic plants to create a naturalistic habitat.
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Water Dish: A shallow water dish is optional as they often drink from mist droplets.
Temperature
- Daytime: 72-78°F
- Nighttime: Can drop to 65-70°F but no lower.
- Basking Spot: Optional but should not exceed 82°F.
- Monitoring: Use digital thermometers to ensure proper temperature gradients.
Humidity
- Range: 50-70%, with spikes up to 80% during misting.
- Support: Mist the enclosure once or twice daily and allow it to dry slightly between mistings.
- Hygrometer: Use a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
Lighting
- UVB: Not strictly necessary but can be beneficial for overall health.
- Cycle: 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to mimic natural conditions.
Diet and Feeding
Staple Diet
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Commercial Diets: High-quality powdered gecko diets (e.g., Pangea, Repashy) mixed with water are the primary food source.
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Insects: Offer gut-loaded and calcium-dusted crickets, dubia roaches, or black soldier fly larvae as treats 1-2 times per week.
Feeding Schedule
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Juveniles: Feed every other day.
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Adults: Feed 3-4 times per week.
Water
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Mist the enclosure daily to provide drinking water. A shallow water dish can also be provided but is not always necessary.
Handling and Temperament
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Temperament: Gargoyle geckos are generally docile but may jump or squirm when young.
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Handling Tips:
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Begin with short, gentle handling sessions to build trust.
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Always support their body and avoid grabbing their tail as it can drop.
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Handle them over a soft surface in case they jump.
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Health and Wellness
Common Issues
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Calcium Deficiency: Prevent with proper diet and supplementation.
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Shedding Problems: Ensure adequate humidity and provide rough surfaces to aid shedding.
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Respiratory Infections: Caused by low temperatures or excessive humidity.
Signs of a Healthy Gecko
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Bright, alert eyes.
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Smooth skin and consistent shedding.
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Active and curious behavior at night.
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Regular feeding and a healthy weight.
Cleaning and Maintenance
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Daily: Spot clean for waste and uneaten food.
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Weekly: Replace water and wipe down surfaces as needed.
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Monthly: Deep clean the enclosure and replace substrate if not bioactive.
Fun Facts About Gargoyle Geckos
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Unique Appearance: Their “horned” ridges give them a gargoyle-like look.
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Color Morphs: They come in a variety of stunning patterns, including stripes, blotches, and reticulations.
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Regenerating Tails: Unlike crested geckos, they can regrow their tails if lost.
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Nocturnal Behavior: Gargoyle geckos are most active at night, making them perfect for evening observation.
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Long Lifespan: With proper care, these geckos can live up to 20 years or more.
Gargoyle geckos are a fantastic choice for reptile enthusiasts due to their manageable care requirements, unique appearance, and engaging behaviors. By providing the proper enclosure, diet, and handling, you can ensure your gargoyle gecko thrives for many years to come. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced keeper, these geckos are sure to captivate you.
