Gargoyle Gecko
A sturdy, personable gecko with a great appetite and a calmer vibe than many lizards. Likes climbing and benefits from a well-ventilated humid setup.
scientificName
Rhacodactylus auriculatus
careLevel
Beginner to Intermediate
adultSize
20 to 23 cm
enclosure
45×45×60 cm (18×18×24 in) vertical minimum
temperature
22 to 26C (avoid >28C)
humidity
60 to 80% with good ventilation
diet
CGD + insects 1 to 2x/week
lifespan
15 to 20 years
handling
Usually tolerant; avoid sudden grabs
lighting
Low-level UVB recommended
weeklyMaintenance
Spot-clean 2 to 3x, deeper clean as needed
Best for
- First-time reptile owners who want a manageable setup
- People who prefer short, calm handling sessions
- Owners who can keep heat stable year-round
- Homes that want a quiet, low-allergy pet
Not ideal for
- People who want a daytime-active pet (many geckos are evening-active)
- Homes that struggle to keep temperatures stable
- Anyone who dislikes handling live insects
- Impulse buyers without time to set up heating correctly
Temperament
- Usually calm once settled with consistent routines
- May be shy during the first weeks in a new home
- Does best when you handle slowly and close to the ground
Daily routine
feeding: Offer appropriately sized insects or CGD as recommended for the species; remove leftovers.
heatLighting: Check warm and cool side temperatures; confirm heat source is working.
check: Look for normal activity, clear eyes, and a clean vent; ensure water is available.
enrichment: Provide hides, climbing options (arboreal species), and a humid hide where applicable.
Living fit
smallHome: Good fit if you can place a properly sized enclosure and heat safely.
kids: Okay with calm supervision; teach gentle handling and hand washing.
firstTimeOwner: Yes, especially leopard gecko and crested gecko.
Health notes
- Poor sheds are usually a humidity or hide issue; adjust before trying to peel shed.
- Calcium and vitamin balance matters; dust feeders and use UVB where appropriate.
- Low temperatures often cause appetite and digestion problems.
Cost and time
time: Low to moderate once the enclosure is stable.
cost: Moderate: enclosure, thermostat, and lighting are the main costs.
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