Chahoua Gecko Temperature & Humidity

Chahoua geckos come from the humid rainforests of New Caledonia and require cool temperatures combined with high humidity to thrive. Getting both right is one of the most important aspects of Chahoua care — and the good news is that the UK climate is naturally well-suited to this species.

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Temperature

Ideal Temperature Range

Daytime ambient temperature: 20–24°C (68–75°F)
Night-time temperature: Can drop to 16–19°C (61–66°F) — a natural cool-down is beneficial
Maximum safe temperature: Do not exceed 26–27°C (79–81°F) for any extended period

In most UK homes, room temperature falls comfortably within the ideal range for much of the year — no additional heating is needed in spring, summer or autumn.

UK-Specific Advice

Summer heatwaves: Temperatures above 27°C can be dangerous. Keep enclosures away from south-facing windows, use fans to cool the room, and monitor temperatures closely during hot spells.
Winter cold: If your home regularly drops below 16°C overnight, use a low-wattage heat mat on the side of the enclosure (never the bottom), controlled by a thermostat set to maintain a safe minimum.

Heating Equipment

If supplemental heating is needed:

Heat mat with thermostat: Fix to the side of the enclosure and set to maintain a minimum of 18°C. Always use a thermostat — never run a heat mat uncontrolled.
Low-wattage ceramic heat emitter: An alternative for larger enclosures, used with a thermostat. Produces heat without light.
Avoid heat rocks, under-tank heaters on the base, and high-wattage basking bulbs.

Monitoring Temperature

Use a digital thermometer with a probe or an infrared temperature gun. Check temperatures at different points in the enclosure and at different times of day and night to understand the full range your gecko experiences.

Humidity

Target Humidity Levels

Daytime humidity: 60–70% — allow a partial dry-out period after misting
Night-time humidity: 80–90% after evening misting

Chahoua require higher humidity than crested geckos, particularly at night. This mimics the natural humidity cycle of their rainforest habitat.

Misting Routine

Morning mist: A light misting to raise humidity after the overnight dry-out period.
Evening mist: A thorough misting in the early evening to raise humidity for the gecko’s active period overnight.
Allow the enclosure to partially dry out between mistings to prevent bacterial growth.
Mist walls, plants and décor rather than directly onto the gecko.
Use dechlorinated or filtered water where possible to avoid mineral deposits.

Increasing Humidity

If your enclosure struggles to hold humidity:

Cover part of the mesh lid with glass or acrylic to reduce evaporation
Add more live plants — these transpire and naturally raise humidity
Use a moisture-retaining substrate such as coconut fibre or a bioactive mix
Switch to a PVC enclosure, which retains humidity much better than glass
Use an automatic misting system for more consistent results

Ventilation

Good airflow is essential even at high humidity. Stagnant, overly wet conditions promote bacteria, mould and respiratory infections. Always ensure fresh air can circulate — cross-ventilation with mesh sides and a mesh top is ideal.

Monitoring Humidity

Use a digital hygrometer placed at mid-height in the enclosure. Check readings before and after misting to understand your enclosure’s full humidity cycle.

Shedding and Humidity

Adequate humidity is critical during shedding. Signs that your Chahoua is approaching a shed include dull, greying skin and reduced activity. Increase misting frequency slightly and consider adding a humid hide lined with damp sphagnum moss. Retained shed around the toes is the most common issue — address promptly as it can restrict circulation.

Seasonal Variation

A slight seasonal temperature and humidity drop in winter (mirroring New Caledonia’s cooler dry season) can be beneficial, particularly for breeding animals. In the UK, central heating naturally reduces indoor humidity in winter — you may need to mist more frequently or partially cover the mesh lid during colder months.