Gargoyle Geckos

Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus)

Overview

The Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus), native to New Caledonia, is a strikingly unique arboreal gecko species renowned for its distinct horns or "bumps" on the head, giving it a gargoyle-like appearance. They come in various color morphs, including vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows, often with bold banding or reticulated patterns. Gargoyle Geckos are hardy, easy to care for, and suitable for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adults reach 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in total length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live 15-20 years in captivity.
• Appearance: Gargoyle Geckos have a thick, muscular body with a broad head and distinctive cranial bumps. Their colors can include shades of gray, brown, orange, red, and yellow, often displayed in stripes or reticulated patterns.
• Distinctive Features: They have a prehensile tail, used for balance and climbing, though they may drop it when threatened. Unlike Crested Geckos, their tails do not regenerate.

Housing

• Enclosure: A vertically oriented terrarium is ideal for Gargoyle Geckos. A single adult should have a minimum of a 12x12x18-inch enclosure (30x30x45 cm), though a larger enclosure like an 18x18x24-inch (45x45x60 cm) terrarium is recommended for more space to climb.
• Substrate: Use a moisture-retentive substrate such as coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or bioactive soil. This helps maintain humidity and mimics their natural habitat. Avoid loose substrates that might cause impaction if ingested.
• Temperature and Humidity: Gargoyle Geckos prefer a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C) and do not require additional heat unless room temperatures regularly drop below 65°F (18°C). Humidity should be maintained at around 50-70%, achieved through daily misting in the morning and evening.
• Lighting: Although not necessary, low-level UVB lighting (5%) can be beneficial for overall health and well-being. Natural light cycles of 10-12 hours are ideal, especially if the enclosure is in a dimly lit room.

Décor and Enrichment

• Climbing Structures: Gargoyle Geckos are semi-arboreal and need plenty of vertical space with branches, logs, and vines to climb. Adding variety to the décor provides enrichment and encourages natural behaviors.
• Hides and Foliage: Include several hiding spots both high and low within the enclosure to help them feel secure. Adding live or artificial plants can also help maintain humidity and provide additional hiding spots.

Feeding

• Diet: Gargoyle Geckos thrive on commercially available, complete powdered gecko diets (CGD) specifically formulated for New Caledonian geckos. This diet is mixed with water to form a smooth paste and meets all of their nutritional requirements. They can also be offered occasional live insects like crickets, dubia roaches, and waxworms as treats.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed juveniles daily and adults every other day. Fresh CGD should be offered at least three times a week, while live insects can be provided once a week as enrichment.
• Supplements: If feeding insects, dust them with calcium and a multivitamin powder. Using a complete powdered diet generally eliminates the need for additional supplementation.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Gargoyle Geckos are typically docile and tolerate handling, though they may be skittish at first. Start by gently introducing your hand and allowing the gecko to approach on its own terms. Avoid grabbing or restraining their tail, as they can drop it.
• Temperament: Gargoyle Geckos are curious and can become accustomed to gentle handling with time. Each gecko’s personality varies, but most are relatively calm and may even recognize their keepers over time.

Health and Maintenance

• Shedding: Gargoyle Geckos shed regularly, and maintaining proper humidity is essential for complete, trouble-free sheds. Mist more often if you notice any incomplete shed on their toes or tail.
• Common Health Concerns: Gargoyle Geckos are generally hardy, but they may develop metabolic bone disease (MBD) if not given adequate calcium. Additionally, respiratory infections can result from improper humidity or low temperatures, so careful monitoring of their environment is key.

Breeding

• Breeding Season: Gargoyle Geckos typically breed in the spring and summer. Females lay clutches of 1-2 eggs every 4-6 weeks throughout the breeding season.
• Egg Incubation: Eggs should be incubated at room temperature, around 72-78°F (22-26°C), and will hatch after approximately 60-90 days. Incubation temperature may affect hatchling gender, though this is not as pronounced as with some other reptiles.

Conclusion

The Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus) is an adaptable, beginner-friendly gecko that captivates with its unique appearance and manageable care needs. With a gentle demeanor, varied diet, and low heating requirements, Gargoyle Geckos are an excellent choice for anyone looking to add an exotic yet relatively easy-to-care-for pet to their collection. Properly cared for, they make fascinating long-term companions with a rewarding personality.