Leachianus Gecko Diet Guide
Leachianus geckos (Rhacodactylus leachianus) are the largest gecko species in the world and have a more varied, protein-rich diet than smaller New Caledonian geckos. As well as fruit-based CGD and insects, adult Leachianus geckos can take whole prey items — a natural part of their diet in the wild.
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Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) — The Staple
CGD powders form the base of a Leachianus gecko’s captive diet. Mix to a smooth paste and serve in a sturdy feeding dish or on a large magnetic feeding ledge.
- Pangea Fruit Mix — highly palatable across a range of flavours. Pangea Fig & Insect and Pangea Breeding Formula are popular choices for Leachianus geckos.
- Repashy Crested Gecko MRP — nutritionally complete and widely trusted. Repashy Grubs ‘n’ Fruit works well for more insectivorous individuals.
- Gecko Nutrition — premium CGD formulated for New Caledonian geckos including Leachianus.
Replace uneaten CGD every 24–48 hours. Leachianus geckos can be messier feeders than smaller species — check and replace regularly.
Live Feeder Insects
Leachianus geckos are enthusiastic insect feeders and benefit from regular live prey offerings. Larger adults can take larger feeders than crested or gargoyle geckos.
- Dubia roaches — the ideal staple feeder for Leachianus. Nutritious, easy to keep, and available in sizes suitable for even large adults.
- Crickets — a good staple; gut-load well and dust before feeding.
- Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) — excellent calcium source; use regularly.
- Locusts — a great variety feeder for adults.
- Waxworms — high fat; occasional treat only.
Always size feeders appropriately — no wider than the space between the gecko’s eyes.
Whole Prey (Adults Only)
Adult Leachianus geckos can be offered whole prey items as an occasional protein supplement. This reflects their natural diet and can be a useful conditioning tool for breeding animals.
- Pinky mice (pinkies) — offer no more than once or twice a month; high in fat and should not be a staple
- Day-old chicks — an occasional protein boost
Whole prey should be offered sparingly and should never replace CGD or insect feeding as the core of the diet.
Supplements
- Calcium without D3 — dust live feeders at every feeding
- Calcium with D3 — use 1–2 times per month if no UVB is provided
- Multivitamin — use once every 1–2 weeks
Feeding Frequency
See our dedicated Leachianus Gecko Feeding Schedule for a full breakdown by age group.
Water
Always provide a sturdy, shallow water dish with fresh water, changed every 1–2 days. Leachianus geckos also drink from water droplets after misting. Ensure the dish is heavy enough not to be knocked over easily.