Introduction
The Gargoyle Gecko(Rhacodactylus auriculatus) or “garg” is native to a group of islands called New Caledonia. Their care is almost identical to the crested gecko. This gecko was rare to own once but now is bred in large numbers.
Size & Longevity
Gargoyle Geckos grow to an average of 8 inches and live for around 15-20 years with proper care.
Tank
Gargoyle Geckos are arboreal species so a vertical tank is recommended. A 18x18x24" exo terra or larger is best for an adult gargoyle gecko. Babies can be kept in tubs and Kritter Keepers and juveniles can be kept in larger tubs or a 12x12x18" exo terra. They do best in a naturalistic vivarium. They will need a dish for food and a dish for water. Since they are arboreal, climbing decorations and plants are a must.
Substrate
If you are going to do a vivarium you will need to start with a drainage layer, then a substrate barrier, next ABG soil mix, and finally plants and/or moss.
If instead you want to do a basic terrarium, eco earth, organic topsoil, or reptisoil would be your best choice.
Heating & Lighting
Gargoyle Geckos need a temperature range of 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Temperatures may drop to the low 70’s at night. In the summer, the Gargoyle Gecko should be placed in a cooler room if temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. An easy way to provide heat is with a low wattage incandescent bulb or ceramic heat emitter.
Water & Humidity
Gargoyle Gecko should have a shallow water dish available at all times. They also like to lick water off the sides of the tanks and the leaves of plants so make sure to mist the tank once or twice a day. Gargoyle Geckos like a humidity of 60-70%.
Food
Gargoyle Geckos are omnivorous. A recommended diet is primarily Pangea or Repashy Gecko Diet along with a few insects throughout the week. Gargoyle Geckos will eat crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms (fed in moderation). Insects should be dusted each feeding with a vitamin/mineral supplement that contain calcium and vitamin D3, unless you are providing a UVB light in which case dust with calcium without D3 and multivitamins. Pangea Gecko Diet should be left in a bowl and any uneaten food should be removed within 24 hours.
Handling
Gargoyle Gecko are good with handling much like the Crested Gecko. However when they are babies, they will need to be tamed because they are jumpy at this age. To begin taming place your hand inside the tank and let your Gargoyle Gecko investigate. Never your force your Gargoyle Gecko onto your hand as this can lead to a bad relationship with your Gargoyle Gecko. Remember the key to taming is patience.
Morphs?
Gargoyle Geckos come in two patterns: striped and blotched. However they come in several different colors in these patterns.