Introduction
The Chinese Cave Gecko(Goniurosaurus hainanensis) is native to the Hainan island of China. Little is known about the cave gecko species but keepers have come together to share information and in doing so have learned with experience. Cave Geckos tend to hide away during the day and are very skittish which makes them a look, don’t touch species.
Size & Longevity
Cave Geckos will grow to be around 7-8 inches. It is unknown as to how long they live but it would probably be around 15-20 years with proper care.
Temperature & Heating
Cave Geckos are a cooler temperature species. They do well at room temperature(60-75 degrees Fahrenheit). They do not like heat, therefore no under tank heat mat or heat bulb of any kind should be used unless their tank goes under 60 degrees often.
Tank
Cave Geckos like to climb so a tank with some height should be used. The recommended is a 20 gallon high but the absolute minimum is a 10 gallon for 1 Cave Gecko. The tank should have a lot of cover due to the species being so reclusive. A couple hides that resemble rocks or wood should be used to give them plenty of hiding places, and climbing decor should be included.
Substrate
Cave Geckos should have a substrate that holds humidity well. Cave Geckos should be kept on eco earth, organic topsoil, reptisoil, or a bioactive substrate their whole life. It is recommended but not necessary to add moss to keep humidity up.
Water & Humidity
Cave Geckos will need a shallow water dish. Cave Geckos live in caves in the wild, caves have a high percentage of humidity, therefore, a humidity of 60-80% is needed. This can be achieved by a fogger or spraying the tank several times a day.
Food
Cave Geckos are insectivores. A top choice is crickets and dubia roaches. If you choose to feed mealworms or waxworms as a treat, it is best to put them in a dish because they may burrow into the ground.
*NOTE*- All food should be dusted with calcium (with and without D3) and vitamin supplements.
Lights?
Cave Geckos are nocturnal so no lights are needed and shouldn’t be used unless you have live plants that need a LED light.
Handling?
Cave Geckos are not a species that likes to be handled. Cave Geckos should only be handled to do brief check-ups (no more than 10 minutes) and to be weighed. It is ideal to handle no more than 1-3 times a month. Cave Geckos are naturally jumpy and should be carefully watched when being handled.
Cohabiting?
Cave Geckos can live in colonies, as long as the tank size is appropriate(2 per 20 gallon max). No accidents have ever been reported while keeping Cave Geckos in colonies.
Morphs?
Chinese Cave Geckos have only one “morph” and that is orange bands instead of yellow on their backs. But if you’re looking for something a bit more detailed than the Chinese Cave Gecko and don’t mind spending a bit more money, there are different species of Cave Geckos that require the same care, that just have different colors and patterns.
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