Leachianus Gecko 

Rhacodactylus leachianus

Natural History

The Leachianus gecko, also known as the New Caledonian giant gecko, undergoes a relatively slow life cycle marked by unique reproductive and developmental traits. Hatchlings typically emerge from their eggs measuring around 4 to 5 inches in total length and can double in size during their first year, given optimal conditions. Males are typically reproductively mature between 3 to 4 years of age, while females generally mature slightly later, often between 4 to 5 years(Although they have been known to breed earlier). These geckos are among the largest of all gecko species, with adults ranging from 12 to 17 inches in total length, depending on the locality. Males tend to have broader heads, whereas females may display larger body mass. In the wild and captivity, Leachianus geckos can live for 15 to over 20 years, with reports of individuals reaching even older ages under proper care.

Reproductively, this species is oviparous, with females typically producing clutches of two eggs. In their natural habitat, they may lay several clutches per year during the warmer months, particularly after the rainy season. The incubation period is prolonged, lasting anywhere from 45 to over 150 days depending on temperature and humidity conditions. Unlike some other reptiles, there is no parental care post-hatching. The young are independent from birth and rely on instinct to find shelter and food. In terms of reproductive behavior, some localities of this species exhibit strong pair bonding, with monogamous pairs defending a shared territory across multiple breeding seasons.

Leachianus geckos are primarily nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of their lives in the forest canopy. They are ambush predators, relying on stealth and camouflage to catch prey rather than active pursuit. Their diet in the wild includes a mix of invertebrates, small vertebrates such as baby birds or lizards, and a significant portion of fruit, nectar, and plant matter. They use a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, often striking with surprising speed for their size when prey comes within reach. Their strong jaws allow them to subdue larger prey items with ease.

Behaviorally, they are known for being territorial, especially adults. Males may exhibit aggression toward rivals and have been observed vocalizing—using a series of grunts, growls, and squeaks—to communicate territorial boundaries and potential threats. This vocalization is also used during mating interactions. When threatened, Leachianus geckos may bluff by inflating their bodies, gaping their mouths, and emitting loud barks to deter predators. If this does not work, they have strong jaws and may bite in defense. Despite these behaviors, they rely heavily on concealment and their natural camouflage as a primary defense mechanism.

In their native forest ecosystems of New Caledonia, Leachianus geckos occupy an important ecological niche. As mid-level predators, they help regulate populations of insects and small vertebrates, contributing to overall forest health and balance. Their consumption of fruit and nectar implies a developmental role in seed dispersal, aiding in the propagation of various plant species. The geckos' nocturnal activity complements other diurnal and crepuscular species, contributing to the round-the-clock turnover of ecological functions within their habitat.

Environmental adaptations are key to their survival in the humid forests where they are found. Their broad toepads are adept at gripping smooth bark and vertical surfaces, essential for navigating the trees. Their coloring and textured skin allow them to blend seamlessly with moss, bark, and lichen, making them nearly invisible to predators and prey alike. Their ability to thrive in a variety of forest altitudes—from lowland rainforests to montane cloud forests—speaks to their adaptability and niche flexibility. Understanding these natural behaviors and their ecological context is crucial for replicating appropriate conditions in captivity and promoting long-term well-being.

Conservation Status

The Leachianus Gecko is currently classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. This classification indicates that the species is relatively stable in the wild and does not face an immediate risk of population decline significant enough for a higher threat category. The classification reflects population trends that show some decline or fragmentation across its natural range, which is limited to a small group of islands, but is overall stable.  These geckos are endemic to New Caledonia, including both the main island (Grande Terre) and surrounding smaller islands such as Isle of Pines and several of the Loyalty Islands. The restricted geographic distribution makes the species especially vulnerable to environmental changes and human influence. While some populations remain relatively stable in isolated regions, others have experienced notable reductions due to habitat alteration and other anthropogenic pressures.

The primary threats to the Leachianus Gecko in the wild are habitat destruction, invasive species, and illegal collection. Much of New Caledonia’s original forest habitat has been degraded or lost due to logging, mining activities, and agricultural development, reducing the amount of viable territory available for this arboreal species. The fragmentation of forested areas also impairs genetic connectivity between populations, which is vital for maintaining genetic diversity. Additionally, invasive predators such as rats and feral cats pose a serious threat by preying on eggs, juveniles, and even adult individuals. Another serious concern is illegal wildlife trade. As the largest gecko species in the world with unique coloration and behavior, these animals are in high demand in the exotic pet market. Although native populations are protected under local law, illegal collection for export still occurs, particularly from smaller offshore islands.

Conservation efforts have been implemented to address some of these threats. Several populations of Leachianus Gecko are found within protected areas and reserves in New Caledonia, where habitat degradation is less severe and human access is limited. Forest conservation initiatives aim to restore and expand native vegetation, especially in higher elevation zones where gecko densities are typically greater. Laws protecting wildlife in New Caledonia prohibit the unlicensed collection and export of native species, and international protection is further offered through CITES Appendix II, which regulates trade to prevent exploitation. Biosecurity procedures are in place on some islands to mitigate the spread of invasive species, although enforcement and consistency remain a challenge.

Captive breeding programs have played a significant role in both conservation and the reptile-keeping community. Several reputable zoos and institutions have established breeding colonies to maintain genetic diversity and study the species’ husbandry needs. While reintroduction into the wild has not yet been widely practiced, the existence of healthy captive populations serves as a safeguard against extinction. These programs also reduce the demand for wild-caught specimens, which in turn mitigates collection pressure on native populations. Public education and engagement campaigns in New Caledonia aim to raise awareness about the importance of conserving endemic reptiles and the unique biodiversity of the region. With continued habitat protection, control of invasive species, and responsible captive husbandry practices, there remains hope for the long-term survival of the Leachianus Gecko both in the wild and in managed care.

Native Range

The Leachianus gecko is endemic to New Caledonia, a French overseas territory located in the southern Pacific Ocean. Its natural distribution is restricted to this island group, making it a geographically limited species with no established populations found outside of the archipelago in the wild. Within New Caledonia, various island populations are found on both the mainland (Grand Terre) and several smaller outlying islands such as the Isle of Pines and other nearby islets. Different populations may exhibit slight ecological and morphological variations, often due to island isolation and habitat specialization. Despite the geographic limitations of New Caledonia, the species occupies a variety of ecological niches across its range.

The species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, which represent its macrohabitat. These forests are characterized by dense evergreen canopy cover, rich in biodiversity and structural complexity. The Leachianus gecko is arboreal, spending nearly all of its life above ground, making use of the vertical stratification offered by the forest. Within these forests, the gecko favors specific microhabitats, such as tree hollows, under loose bark, inside dead standing trunks, and occasionally in crevices between epiphytic plants like bromeliads. These microhabitats offer essential cover for daytime refuge, as the species is nocturnal. Large, mature trees with abundant hiding places are particularly important for their shelter and thermoregulation.

Climatically, New Caledonia experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average daily temperatures within the gecko’s range generally fall between 70°F and 85°F, with occasional seasonal highs into the low 90s°F during summer months (typically December to March). During cooler dry months (June through August), temperatures may dip into the low 60s°F at night, although frost or freezing conditions are extremely rare except at the highest elevations. Humidity plays a critical role in this gecko’s ecology. Ambient humidity in its preferred habitats frequently ranges from 70% to 100%, especially in the evening and early morning hours. Annual rainfall is substantial, often exceeding 60 inches per year, particularly in regions with dense forest and higher elevations. These precipitation patterns directly influence the availability of water for hydration, reproduction, and prey abundance.

The species is found predominantly in lowland and mid-elevation forests, generally from sea level to approximately 3,000 feet in elevation. It is rarely observed at higher altitudes, as temperature and humidity patterns become less optimal beyond this range. Lowland forest populations often inhabit areas near river systems or coastal plains, benefiting from stable microclimates, while mid-elevation populations may experience slightly cooler conditions with higher moisture retention due to frequent cloud cover.

Several environmental features are critical to the survival of the Leachianus gecko. These include consistent access to moist shelter sites, such as decaying tree hollows or decomposing palm trunks, which provide humidity and stability in ambient conditions. A structurally complex forest with a mature canopy is essential not only for protection from predators but also for facilitating movement, foraging, and thermoregulation. The species displays a preference for areas with minimal ground disturbance and intact leaf litter, although it only infrequently descends to the forest floor. Additionally, availability of vertical shelter and proximity to insect-rich zones—such as flowering or fruiting trees contributing to seasonal prey abundance—support the gecko’s feeding ecology. The preservation of these forested environments is vital, as habitat loss and fragmentation pose substantial risks to its long-term viability in the wild.

Behavior

In its natural environment, the Leachianus Gecko is primarily nocturnal, exhibiting peak activity during the nighttime hours. It begins emerging from crevices, tree hollows, or dense vegetation shortly after dusk and continues to forage and explore throughout the night. During daylight hours, the gecko remains hidden, utilizing its cryptic coloration to blend with tree bark or rock surfaces to avoid predation and overheating. Activity levels can fluctuate seasonally, especially in the cooler months. In its native range, during periods of lower ambient temperatures, individuals may enter a state of reduced activity similar to brumation, though not as pronounced or prolonged as seen in temperate reptiles. Warmer temperatures in the wet season often coincide with increased feeding activity and the onset of mating behaviors.

Socially, the Leachianus Gecko is predominantly solitary and highly territorial, especially in adult stages. Juveniles will sometimes cohabitate with conspecifics for short periods, but as they mature, individuals usually establish and defend distinct territories. Intra-specific aggression is common when two adults are placed in close proximity, particularly if they are of the same sex or introduced without a gradual acclimation period. During encounters, dominance is asserted through threatening postures, vocalizations, and, if necessary, physical confrontations. While mating pairs may cohabitate during the breeding season, long-term cohabitation, even among compatible pairs, can lead to stress or injury if territorial disputes arise.

Reproductive behavior includes courtship that involves specific vocalizations, physical contact, and scent marking. Males typically initiate courtship by approaching the female with a series of low grunts or growls, licking motions, and head bobs. If receptive, the female will allow copulation, which is often followed by retreat to a secluded location for egg deposition. Parental care is minimal to nonexistent; the female typically lays one or two leathery eggs in a concealed, warm, and humid location. Once deposited, the eggs are left unattended, and hatchlings are independent from birth.

In response to environmental stimuli, the Leachianus Gecko is sensitive to changes in temperature, photoperiod, and humidity. Seasonal shifts in day length and ambient humidity directly influence their physiological and behavioral rhythms, particularly breeding readiness. They thermoregulate primarily through strategic positioning rather than basking, as their nocturnal habits minimize exposure to direct sunlight. These geckos rely heavily on their acute sense of smell and vision to detect prey and potential threats. They use their Jacobson's organ to pick up chemical cues from surfaces, enabling them to locate prey or identify the presence of another gecko. Sudden disturbances or proximity to larger animals, including humans, can provoke defensive behaviors such as tail waving, loud vocalizations, gaping, and, in extreme cases, biting. Their camouflage plays a critical role in predator avoidance, with coloration that closely mimics the lichen-covered bark of New Caledonian rainforest trees.

One of the most notable behavioral traits of the Leachianus Gecko is its highly vocal nature. Unlike many other gecko species, it regularly emits a range of sounds, including growls, clicks, and barks, which serve as communication signals in territorial, mating, or defensive contexts. This vocalization is particularly unique among reptiles of comparable size. Also distinct is its locomotive style—it can climb vertical surfaces with ease due to specialized toe pads, and it exhibits deliberate, calculated movements rather than rapid scurrying, distinguishing it from many other arboreal geckos.

In captivity, behavioral adaptations can differ from wild counterparts in several ways. While still nocturnal, captive geckos may adjust their activity slightly in response to artificial light cycles and feeding routines. They often maintain their territorial nature, and attempts to cohabitate adults without proper introduction or ample space can result in stress or injury. Feeding behavior in captivity is typically more passive; rather than actively hunting, most individuals recognize feeding routines and consume pre-killed or tong-fed prey. Over time, they may show reduced prey-drive intensity compared to wild specimens that must hunt live insects or small vertebrates.

Stress indicators in captivity include decreased appetite, excessive hiding, or increased aggressive vocalization. Enrichment is essential to mimic their complex natural environment and reduce captive stress. Providing vertical climbing opportunities, multiple hiding spaces, and seasonal changes in temperature and humidity helps meet their behavioral and physiological needs. Notably, these geckos can become more accustomed to human presence over time, displaying curiosity and tolerance, though they remain largely observational animals and should not be handled frequently.

Captivity Requirements

Enclosure Design

Leachianus geckos, also known as New Caledonian giant geckos, require spacious and vertically oriented enclosures due to their arboreal nature. Juveniles up to six months old can be housed in enclosures measuring at least 12 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 18 inches tall, which allow for adequate climbing space while preventing stress from overly large territories. However, adults need significantly larger enclosures. The absolute minimum size for a smaller single adult is 18 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 24 inches tall, though larger enclosures—such as 24 inches by 24 inches by 36 inches—are strongly recommended to accommodate their active climbing behavior and provide environmental complexity.

Enclosure materials should be sturdy, escape-proof, and suitable for maintaining stable humidity and temperature. PVC or glass enclosures with front-opening doors are ideal, as they retain heat and humidity effectively while allowing ease of access for cleaning and handling. Ventilation must be balanced—adequate airflow at both the top and bottom of the enclosure helps prevent stagnant air and bacterial buildup, while still retaining enough humidity. 

The internal layout of the enclosure should replicate the dense forests of New Caledonia. Vertical cork bark panels, thick vines, and natural branches (such as mopani or sandblasted grapevine) should be securely mounted to offer climbing structures across all levels of the enclosure. Place multiple hiding spots at different elevations, such as cork tubes, resin hides, or densely arranged foliage—live or artificial—to reduce stress and mimic their natural retreat sites. A dedicated basking area near the top of the enclosure should be situated beneath a heat source, while cooler zones should provide shaded refuge. To prevent escapes, all doors should be secured with locking mechanisms, and screen or ventilation cutouts must be reinforced to eliminate gaps. Leachianus geckos are strong and capable of pushing open unsecured panels.

Lighting and Heating

Though largely nocturnal and crepuscular, Leachianus geckos still benefit from the presence of linear UVB lighting. A 5 to 7% UVB linear tube, such as a T5 High Output bulb, is recommended and should extend across half the length of the enclosure to create a gradient. Place the UVB fixture above a mesh screen or 12 to 18 inches from the highest climbing point to ensure effective dosages. This exposure supports vitamin D3 synthesis, proper calcium metabolism, and overall health, even if the species avoids direct light during the day.

Temperature gradients are essential to thermoregulation. The basking area should be maintained between 82 and 85°F using a low-wattage heat bulb or Ceramic heat emitter. Avoid temperatures above 86°F for extended periods, as this species is sensitive to overheating. The ambient temperature throughout the enclosure should range from 72 to 78°F during the day, with a nighttime drop to 65 to 72°F replicating the natural cooling of their habitat. Heating elements must always be regulated by a thermostat, in conjunction with digital thermometers placed at different heights and locations within the enclosure to monitor gradients accurately.

Maintain a 12-hour light/dark photoperiod year-round, though slight seasonal adjustments to day length can help replicate natural seasonal cues. For example, a shift to 10 hours of light during winter and 14 hours in summer may help synchronize annual cycles in adults, particularly in breeding pairs. Consistent lighting cycles are also crucial for behavioral rhythms, appetite regulation, and reducing stress.

Substrate and Enrichment

Substrate selection plays a key role in maintaining appropriate humidity and allowing natural behaviors. A substrate option like TropicalBase offers an ideal balance for Leachianus geckos. This combination retains moisture, resists mold, and supports burrowing behavior in juveniles and females preparing nesting sites. Adding a layer of leaf litter on top of the substrate enhances realism and encourages foraging-like activity. ReptiChip  or BabiChip may also be used and mixed with ReptiEarth to improve moisture retention and prevent compaction.

Loose substrates are preferred over solid surface options, as this species engages in occasional digging or exploration at ground level. Avoid any substrate with sharp particles or excessive dust, and never use silica-based sand or calcium sand. Do not use reptile carpet under any circumstances; it harbors bacteria, poses a risk of toenail damage and impaction, and does not meet the gecko’s environmental needs.

Enrichment is vital for both physical and mental stimulation. Offer multiple vertical and horizontal elements of various textures—tree fern panels, bamboo tubes, bark flats, and cork rounds. Artificial and live plants not only provide additional climbing surfaces but also offer visual barriers and increase the enclosure’s complexity, reducing stress and promoting natural behaviors. Rotate enrichment items periodically and vary the interior structure to introduce novelty and prevent habituation. Hide boxes filled with moist sphagnum moss can encourage thermoregulation, reduce dehydration, and serve as nesting sites for females.

Humidity and Hydration

Leachianus geckos require moderate to high humidity, with ideal levels maintained between 60% and 80%. These ranges should fluctuate naturally throughout the day, with peaks after misting and troughs before subsequent moisture events, replicating natural cycles in their humid forest habitat. Monitor humidity levels using a calibrated digital hygrometer with sensors placed at both the mid-level and ground level of the enclosure, as readings can vary by height due to stratified airflow.

To sustain optimal humidity, daily misting is recommended in the evenings as this coincides with the species' peak activity period. A thorough misting once or twice per day is typically sufficient, depending on ambient room humidity. Automated misting systems or ultrasonic foggers on timers can be used in large enclosures, particularly in drier climates. Ensure that ventilation is not overly reduced in an attempt to retain humidity, as stagnant conditions can encourage bacterial or fungal growth.

Hydration strategies must be tailored to their behavior. Leachianus geckos often prefer licking water droplets from leaves and enclosure walls rather than drinking from bowls. Consequently, misting should ensure adequate surface moisture for several hours post-application. Nonetheless, a clean, shallow water dish should still be provided at all times to support hydration during drier hours or for individuals that may drink directly. Water bowls should be placed in shaded, cooler regions of the enclosure to reduce evaporation and biofilm formation.

Introducing moss-filled hides and using moisture-retaining substrates such as lightly dampened ReptiEarth bolsters the enclosure’s baseline humidity while offering microclimates. Live tropical plants can also contribute to moisture through transpiration while reinforcing the natural environment the species thrives in. Regular observation of shedding and behavior assists in fine-tuning humidity control; retained sheds or reluctance to explore usually indicate sub-optimal conditions.

Diet & Supplementation

In its natural environment, the Leachianus Gecko is an opportunistic omnivore with a diet that includes a combination of animal and plant-based foods. In the wild, this large gecko preys on a variety of invertebrates such as beetles, crickets, roaches, spiders, and moths. It also consumes small vertebrates, including other lizards, baby birds, and occasionally small rodents when available. In addition to animal prey, the Leachianus Gecko consumes overripe fruit, floral nectar, and tree sap, particularly from native fig and pandanus species. This omnivorous diet provides a mix of protein, essential fatty acids, sugars, and micronutrients necessary for growth, energy maintenance, and reproductive health.

The Leachianus Gecko employs ambush predation and active foraging as its primary hunting strategies. It is a nocturnal species with excellent low-light vision, which it uses in conjunction with its strong sense of smell to detect potential prey. This gecko relies heavily on chemical cues, using its tongue to gather substrate particles and transfer them to the vomeronasal organ for analysis. Unlike some other geckos, it does not possess heat-sensing pits or specialized hunting adaptations like venom or constriction. When capturing mobile prey, it uses a powerful bite and rapid lunging motion, often immobilizing insects with a swift shake. For nectar and fruit, it laps or bites directly into soft tissues, allowing it to access the sugary contents efficiently.

Dietary preferences and metabolic needs in this species vary with life stage and season. Juvenile Leachianus Geckos are more insectivorous, requiring frequent, protein-rich meals to support rapid growth. They typically feed every other day, with a high emphasis on live prey. As they age, adults shift toward a broader diet that includes more plant matter and fruit, with feeding frequency reduced to two to three times per week. During cooler or drier periods in the wild, activity levels decline, and feeding becomes less frequent. Seasonal breeding cycles may also influence dietary demand, with gravid females requiring increased calcium and energy to support egg production.

In captivity, replicating the Leachianus Gecko’s natural diet requires careful planning to ensure balanced nutrition. A common and effective approach includes offering a commercial meal replacement powder designed specifically for frugivorous geckos, mixed with water to form a palatable paste. These diets typically contain a blend of fruit purees, protein sources, calcium, and vitamins. Additionally, feeding live insects such as dubia roaches, crickets, and silkworms 1–2 times per week provides essential behavioral stimulation and supports lean muscle development. Gut-loading insects with high-calcium diets and dusting them with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements is essential, particularly for juveniles and breeding females, to prevent metabolic bone disease.

Challenges in captive feeding include food refusal, often due to stress, poor husbandry, or inappropriate environmental conditions such as low nighttime temperatures. Obesity can develop if calorie-dense commercial diets are overprovided without sufficient physical activity. Conversely, underfeeding or offering a diet too low in protein can result in malnutrition, especially in juveniles. To promote natural feeding behaviors and prevent these issues, keepers should vary food offerings and simulate natural foraging by placing insects in interactive enclosures with climbing surfaces. Feeding should occur during the gecko’s active period at night, aligning with its nocturnal schedule. Monitoring body condition score and adjusting feeding frequency accordingly is crucial to maintaining long-term health and vitality in captive Leachianus Geckos.

Reproduction

Leachianus geckos reach sexual maturity relatively late compared to many other gecko species. Males are typically reproductively mature between 3 to 4 years of age, while females generally mature slightly later, often between 4 to 5 years(Although they have been known to breed earlier).  This gradually maturing reproductive system contributes to their relatively low reproductive output and extended breeding intervals. Leachianus geckos exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism, with adult males possessing visible hemipenal bulges at the base of the tail and a broader, heavier head structure compared to females. Females tend to be slightly more gracile with a rounder body shape, particularly outside the breeding season.

Courtship in Leachianus geckos is characterized by a combination of vocalizations, tactile interactions, and postural displays. Males emit low-frequency growls and clicking sounds to assess female receptivity and establish their presence within the paired territory. Females respond with defensive postures or neutral body language depending on their hormonal state. In successful pairings, the male may gently bite the female's nape during courtship to initiate copulation. Despite their relatively sedentary nature, pairs may exhibit territorial behavior, and compatibility is not guaranteed—pre-mating aggression is not uncommon, particularly if the enclosure does not allow separation or retreat. As such, mate selection should proceed gradually, ideally through a multi-phase introduction process with separate enclosures and visual access before cohabitation.

Reproduction in Leachianus geckos is oviparous, with females depositing calcified eggs in secure nesting sites. Copulation requires stable behavioral dynamics and optimal body condition, particularly in females, which may undergo physical stress during follicular development. Controlled environmental cues are essential in initiating the breeding cycle. In captivity, successful breeding often requires simulation of seasonal fluctuations that mimic the species’ natural habitat. During the cooler months—typically October through February—temperatures should be gently reduced to a nighttime low of 68–70°F and daytime highs around 75–77°F, accompanied by a shortened photoperiod of 10 hours light and 14 hours dark. Gradual warming beginning in March, with daytime highs rising to 80–84°F and night temperatures around 72–75°F, paired with a 12–14 hour photoperiod, can stimulate reproductive responses. Humidity should also be slightly increased in early spring to 70–80%, especially during nighttime, to cue environmental readiness for breeding.

Breeding enclosures must provide sufficient space and complexity to reduce territorial pressure, as these geckos are highly territorial—even among compatible pairs. A minimum enclosure size of 2 feet long by 3 feet tall by 2 feet deep is recommended for pairs. Structures for vertical climbing, secure hides, and multiple sight barriers reduce social stress and foster successful interaction. Access to a suitable nesting site is vital for females. A secluded, humid hide filled with damp sphagnum moss or moist ReptiEarth encourages oviposition and reduces egg binding associated with inadequate nesting conditions.

Captive breeding presents several challenges unique to Leachianus geckos. Pair incompatibility is a common issue; even sexually mature geckos may reject each other, leading to aggressive encounters. To mitigate this, potential breeding partners should be cohabitated only after a gradual acclimation period, monitored daily for signs of stress or injury. Failure to breed can also result from ongoing environmental stress. Maintaining consistent humidity, appropriate seasonal cycling, and minimizing human disturbance can promote a stable breeding environment. Female reproductive failure may occur if dietary calcium and nutrient levels are insufficient; therefore, a mineral-rich diet with appropriate supplementation is essential prior to and during the breeding season. Lastly, overbreeding can occur if pairs are cohabitated year-round, which may lead to stress-induced health issues. It is best practice to separate pairs outside the breeding window to allow each gecko time to recover and maintain long-term reproductive health.

Incubation & Neonate Care

Leachianus geckos are oviparous, meaning they reproduce by laying eggs rather than giving live birth. Females typically produce clutches of two eggs, with several clutches laid throughout the breeding season, which can span from spring to late summer. After mating, females usually lay their eggs approximately 30 to 45 days post-copulation. These eggs are deposited in a secure, humid location, often buried within a moist substrate in a nesting box or suitable corner of the enclosure. It is crucial for keepers to provide an appropriate laying site—such as a container filled with damp sphagnum moss or a 1:1 mix of moistened vermiculite and perlite—to allow the female to deposit eggs safely and reduce the risk of egg retention, also known as egg binding.

Once eggs are laid, they should be carefully removed for artificial incubation to provide consistent and controlled conditions. Incubation should be performed in a dedicated incubator, using a stable medium such as perlite or vermiculite with a moisture ratio of approximately 1:1 by weight (e.g., 100 grams of substrate to 100 grams of water). Ideal incubation temperatures for Leachianus gecko eggs range between 72°F and 84°F. The humidity in the incubator should remain between 70% and 90%. Good ventilation is important to prevent mold and ensure gas exchange—incubation containers should be loosely sealed with a few small air holes or opened periodically to exchange air.

Incubation duration typically lasts about 45 to 150 days, depending on the temperature maintained. Lower temperatures tend to produce longer incubation periods and may affect sex determination in reptiles with temperature-dependent sex determination; this effect is seen in Leachianus geckos. Typically, clutches incubated at higher temps yield more males and lower temps yield more females. Hatching generally begins when fully developed neonates slit the eggshell with their egg tooth. Active hatching can take several hours, and human intervention is rarely required unless the neonate struggles significantly, in which case gentle assistance may be warranted to prevent suffocation. Ensure that babies are left in the incubator for 12 to 24 hours post-hatching to allow full absorption of residual yolk sacs before transferring to a juvenile enclosure. Parents do not provide post-hatching care, and in captive settings, they should not be housed with hatchlings to avoid stress or predatory behavior.

Once hatched, neonates should be kept in a small, secure enclosure to reduce stress and make environmental control easier. A 10-gallon terrarium with a tight-fitting screen lid is generally sufficient for the first months of life. Maintain an ambient temperature of 75°F to 80°F during the day, with a nighttime drop to no lower than 70°F. A localized warm area of about 82°F to 84°F can be provided via a low-wattage heat source if room temperatures are cool, though Leachianus geckos are largely nocturnal and do not require intense basking spots. Humidity should be maintained at 60% to 80%, with daily misting to provide hydration and aid in shedding. Good airflow is critical, as prolonged excessive humidity with poor ventilation can lead to respiratory infections.

Neonates should not be co-housed with adults or even with other neonates unless the enclosure is particularly spacious and strategic hiding areas are provided. Aggression or dominance behavior can occur, even in young geckos, and can stress subordinate individuals, leading to feeding issues or injury. Offer neonates hiding areas using cork bark slabs, branches, or artificial foliage. The enclosure should include vertical climbing options, as these arboreal geckos prefer to spend time off the ground.

Feeding should begin once the juvenile sheds its skin, typically within 3 to 5 days post-hatching. At this point, offer a fruit-based commercial gecko diet formulated specifically for New Caledonian geckos, along with appropriately sized live insects such as pinhead crickets or small dubia roaches dusted with calcium and vitamin D3. Insects should be offered two to three times weekly, and fruit diet provided three to four times per week. Ensure fresh water is available in a shallow dish, though many geckos prefer to drink water droplets from surfaces after misting.

Handling of neonates should be kept to a minimum during the first month to reduce stress and allow for proper growth and feeding response. Close monitoring during this period is essential. Common concerns include failure to thrive due to incorrect temperature or humidity, or dehydration. 

Responsible neonate care is vital to ensuring healthy growth, strong immune development, and proper behavior as the gecko matures. With appropriate conditions and attentive management, Leachianus geckos can thrive in captivity from hatchling to adult stages.

Conclusion

In conclusion, successfully maintaining Leachianus geckos in captivity requires a deep understanding of their natural history, ecological needs, and behavioral patterns. As highly specialized arboreal reptiles from New Caledonia’s humid forest ecosystems, these geckos demand carefully constructed enclosures that replicate the vertical complexity, microclimatic conditions, and seasonal dynamics of their native habitat. Meeting their environmental requirements—such as providing appropriate thermal gradients, humidity levels, UV exposure, and structurally diverse climbing options—not only supports their physical health but also reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors.

Feeding strategies must be tailored to their life stage and omnivorous dietary preferences. Juveniles require frequent protein-rich meals to support rapid growth, while adults benefit from a diet incorporating both animal prey and fruit-based components. Proper supplementation is critical, particularly for breeding females, to prevent calcium-related disorders. Behavioral enrichment, in the form of climbing structures, varied diets, and seasonal environmental changes, plays a vital role in sustaining mental well-being and encouraging foraging and territorial behaviors

Due to their sensitivity to social stress and territorial nature, careful pairing and housing decisions are imperative, especially during the breeding season. Reproductive success in captivity depends on gradual pair introductions, environmental cueing through seasonal shifts, and the provision of adequate nesting sites. Neonatal care requires precise environmental control, appropriate nutrition, and minimal handling to set the foundation for long-term health.

Captive breeding programs offer a valuable tool for conservation, helping reduce collection pressure on wild populations while preserving genetic diversity. However, these efforts are most effective when paired with robust conservation initiatives addressing habitat protection, invasive species control, and public education in the species’ native range. By replicating their natural conditions and respecting their behavioral individuality, dedicated keepers can ensure the well-being of Leachianus geckos in captivity and contribute meaningfully to the preservation of this unique and ecologically important reptile.