Chahoua Geckos

Chahoua Gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua)

Overview

The Chahoua Gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua), native to the islands of New Caledonia, is a hardy, personable species that has become increasingly popular in the pet trade. Often called “Mossy Geckos” for their natural green and brown coloration, Chahouas are known for their ability to blend into their surroundings and their prehensile tails, which they use to grip branches and leaves. With a manageable size and a calm, curious personality, Chahoua Geckos are ideal for both beginner and experienced reptile enthusiasts.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adults range between 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in length, including their prehensile tails.
• Lifespan: With proper care, Chahoua Geckos can live 15-20 years in captivity.
• Appearance: Their skin pattern often includes shades of green, brown, red, and white, resembling moss or lichen, which provides excellent camouflage. They have a broad head, soft skin, and large, expressive eyes.
• Distinctive Features: Chahouas have a prehensile tail that allows them to securely grip branches and move with agility through their arboreal habitat.

Housing

• Enclosure: A vertically oriented, 18x18x24-inch (45x45x60 cm) terrarium is ideal for a single Chahoua Gecko, allowing space for climbing and exploration. Enclosures with ample vertical space and a secure lid are recommended, as these geckos are active and curious.
• Substrate: A moisture-retentive substrate such as coconut fiber, moss, or a mix with orchid bark replicates their humid environment and helps maintain humidity levels.
• Temperature and Humidity: Chahoua Geckos thrive in temperatures between 75-80°F (24-27°C), with a basking spot of up to 85°F (29°C). They require moderate to high humidity levels (60-80%), which can be achieved with daily misting and substrate moisture. Night temperatures can safely drop to 70°F (21°C).
• Lighting: Although they do not require intense UVB, providing a low-level UVB light (2-5%) is beneficial for calcium metabolism. A day-night cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours darkness will suit their natural habits.

Décor and Enrichment

• Climbing Structures: As an arboreal species, Chahouas enjoy a setup with branches, vines, and cork bark to climb on. Bamboo, driftwood, and sturdy artificial or live plants create a dynamic environment.
• Hiding Spots: Provide multiple hiding spots at different levels, including hides that offer humidity. This setup helps them feel secure and allows them to exhibit natural climbing and hiding behaviors.

Feeding

• Diet: In captivity, Chahoua Geckos can be fed a variety of insects and commercially available powdered gecko diets formulated for fruit-eating geckos. Their diet should include gut-loaded crickets, roaches, and small insects once or twice a week, with a staple of gecko diet powder mixed with water and offered 2-3 times per week.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer fresh food 2-3 times a week for adults and more frequently for juveniles. Fruit purees, such as mango or papaya, can be given occasionally for enrichment.
• Supplements: Lightly dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 to prevent metabolic bone disease. Multivitamins should be provided once a week for a balanced diet.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Chahoua Geckos are known for their calm, tolerant nature and generally accept handling well compared to other geckos. They are often curious about their keepers, and with gentle handling, they can become quite friendly.
• Temperament: They are social geckos with a curious, relaxed demeanor. They tend to adapt well to regular interaction, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a more interactive gecko species.

Health and Maintenance

• Shedding: Chahoua Geckos usually shed without issues, but maintaining proper humidity is essential to prevent retained skin, especially around the toes and tail. Increasing misting frequency during shedding can assist.
• Common Health Concerns: Like other geckos, Chahouas are prone to health issues if their diet is unbalanced or their environment is improperly set up. Consistent humidity and a balanced diet with calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation are crucial for bone health.

Breeding

• Breeding Season: Chahouas typically breed in the spring and summer. Females lay two eggs per clutch and can produce several clutches throughout the season.
• Egg Incubation: Incubate eggs at 70-75°F (21-24°C) for 70-90 days. Proper humidity and gentle handling are essential for successful hatching.

Conclusion

The Chahoua Gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua) is a delightful species known for its unique appearance, calm temperament, and manageable care requirements. Their distinctive mossy coloration and prehensile tails make them an interesting addition to any gecko collection. With proper care, Chahoua Geckos are hardy, long-lived, and interactive pets, making them a rewarding choice for both new and experienced reptile enthusiasts.