| Scientific Name | Rhacodactylus auriculatus |
| Common Name | Gargoyle Gecko |
| Origins | New Caledonia |
| Adult Size | 15 – 20cm |
| Behaviour | Nocturnal |
| Ease of Care | Beginner – Intermediate |
| Lifespan | 15 – 20+ years |
Detailed Care Guides
Looking for more in-depth guidance? We’ve put together dedicated subtopic pages covering every aspect of Gargoyle gecko care:
- Gargoyle Gecko Enclosure Setup — tank size, enclosure types, substrate, hides and décor
- Gargoyle Gecko Diet — CGD brands, live feeders and supplements
- Gargoyle Gecko Feeding Schedule — how often to feed by age group
- Gargoyle Gecko Temperature & Humidity — ideal ranges, misting routines and seasonal variation
- Gargoyle Gecko Lighting — UVB guidance and day/night cycles
- Gargoyle Gecko Handling — taming tips, stress signals and safe handling
About Gargoyle Geckos
Gargoyle Geckos (Rhacodactylus auriculatus) are hardy, robust arboreal geckos native to New Caledonia. Closely related to crested geckos, they share many of the same care requirements while offering a distinctly different look — named for the distinctive horn-like bumps above their eyes that give them their memorable appearance. Calm, easy to care for, and tolerant of handling, gargoyle geckos are an excellent choice for both beginner and intermediate keepers.
One notable difference from crested geckos: gargoyle geckos can regrow their tails if dropped, though the regenerated tail will look different from the original. As with all geckos, they are best kept alone — cohabiting can lead to fighting, stress, and tail loss.
Enclosure
Gargoyle geckos are arboreal and require a tall, vertically oriented terrarium. Recommended minimum sizes are 30x30x45cm for juveniles and 45x45x60cm for adults. The enclosure should include branches and vines for climbing, live or artificial plants for cover, hides for security, and a humidity-retaining substrate such as coconut fibre or a bioactive soil mix. Ensure good ventilation to prevent stagnant, overly damp air.
Lighting
Gargoyle geckos are nocturnal and do not require strong lighting. A 12-hour day/night cycle is recommended. Low-level UVB (2–5%) is beneficial, supporting vitamin D3 production and overall health, though it is not strictly essential if supplementation is correct.
Temperature & Humidity
Gargoyle geckos prefer moderate temperatures and do not cope well with excess heat. Daytime ambient temperature should be 22°C – 26°C, dropping to 18°C – 22°C at night. Avoid prolonged temperatures above 29°C. Maintain daytime humidity at 50–60%, rising to 70–80% after evening misting. Always allow the enclosure to dry out between mistings.
→ Full Temperature & Humidity Guide
Feeding
Gargoyle geckos are omnivores and eat a combination of fruit-based MRP diets and live insects. Complete diets from brands such as Pangea, Repashy, and Gecko Nutrition provide balanced nutrition and can serve as the sole diet. Offer gut-loaded live insects such as crickets or dubia roaches dusted with calcium and D3, 2–3 times per week.
→ Full Diet Guide | Feeding Schedule
Handling
Gargoyle geckos can become very tame with regular, gentle handling. Allow the gecko to walk onto your hand rather than grabbing from above. Keep sessions short initially and increase gradually as the gecko settles in. Leave a newly introduced gecko undisturbed for 3–4 weeks before starting handling to allow it to settle and begin feeding confidently.
General Care Tips
- Spot clean the enclosure regularly and deep clean every 1–2 months
- Always monitor temperature and humidity with digital gauges
- House geckos individually except during supervised breeding
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