Natural History

Chahoua geckos are medium-sized, arboreal lizards native to the humid forests of New Caledonia, a remote island group in the South Pacific. Their life cycle begins as soft-shelled eggs deposited in secure nest sites, usually within leaf litter or nestled in tree hollows. Females typically lay clutches of two eggs, with a reproductive season that can extend from late spring through early autumn in their natural environment. Incubation lasts roughly 70 to 120 days depending on ambient temperature, with warmer conditions generally accelerating development. Hatchlings emerge fully independent. Growth is relatively steady in optimal conditions, with individuals reaching sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age. Adult Chahoua geckos average between 8 and 10 inches in total length, with some reaching up to 11 inches. Their robust bodies and prehensile tails develop gradually, strengthening as they mature. In captivity, lifespans of 15 to 20 years are not uncommon, while wild individuals likely experience shorter lifespans due to predation and environmental stresses.

Chahoua geckos are highly adapted for arboreal life and display a fascinating range of natural behaviors. They are primarily crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk, although they may exhibit periods of nighttime activity in secure and undisturbed settings. Their hunting strategy is opportunistic and predicated on slow, deliberate movements. They will stalk or ambush invertebrate prey such as insects, using a burst of speed when close enough to make a successful strike. In addition to animal prey, Chahoua geckos consume sweet fruits, nectar, and plant matter, making them omnivorous. Their sticky toe pads and strong, muscular tails allow for effective navigation through a three-dimensional canopy environment. Though generally solitary in the wild, Chahoua geckos can exhibit limited social tolerance, particularly during mating seasons. Males are territorial and may engage in low-level threats or scuffles with rivals, while females sometimes share overlapping home ranges. Defensive behavior includes color darkening for camouflage, body inflation to appear larger, and vocalizations—chirps or growls—that can startle predators or dissuade rivals.

In their native ecosystem, Chahoua geckos play an integral role in maintaining ecological balance. As mid-level omnivores, they help regulate populations of insects and small invertebrates, contributing to natural pest control. Their frugivorous habits also assist in seed dispersal, promoting plant biodiversity within the rainforest understory. Because they themselves serve as prey for larger reptiles, birds, and occasional mammals, they are a vital link in the food chain. Their cryptic coloration—often mossy green, with mottled patches of red, orange, or white—provides effective camouflage against lichen-covered bark and helps them blend into the forest environment. This adaptation not only helps them evade predators but also enhances their success as ambush hunters. Furthermore, their ability to regenerate tails, though not as strong or prehensile as the original, contributes to survival after predatory encounters. Chahoua geckos are a prime example of an arboreal reptile finely tuned to a narrow ecological niche, relying on structural complexity, moisture, and microhabitats of tropical forests to thrive. Understanding these natural behaviors and roles is essential for replicating appropriate husbandry in captivity.

Conservation Status

The Chahoua gecko is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This classification indicates that the species faces a high risk of endangerment in the wild if current threats are not effectively mitigated. While the Chahoua gecko has a relatively limited range—being native only to the islands of Grande Terre and Île des Pins in New Caledonia—its population is considered to be in decline due to a range of anthropogenic pressures. The Vulnerable status reflects significant concerns about the long-term viability of the species in the wild, given its limited distribution and the various environmental pressures impacting its habitat and survival.
The primary threats to the Chahoua gecko in its natural environment are habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation. Deforestation for agriculture, logging, and urban development continues to erode the gecko’s native subtropical forest habitat. These forests are critical for the species' survival, providing not only shelter but essential food sources such as insects, nectar, and fruit. Habitat degradation makes it more difficult for the geckos to find food, breed successfully, and evade predators.
In addition to habitat loss, the introduction of invasive species has had a profound effect on native gecko populations. Predatory mammals such as rats and feral cats have been introduced to the islands and actively prey on geckos, including both juveniles and adults. These invasive predators can inflict significant damage on populations that already have a limited geographic distribution. Another looming threat is climate change, which has the potential to alter weather patterns and disrupt the delicate ecological balance of New Caledonia’s montane and lowland forests. Shifts in temperature and humidity could negatively affect egg incubation periods, breeding cycles, and food availability.
The illegal wildlife trade also pressures wild populations. Due to its unique appearance, manageable size, and calm demeanor, the Chahoua gecko is highly prized in the exotic pet market. Although captive-bred individuals are legally traded, illegal collection from the wild still occurs and undermines conservation efforts. Removal of wild individuals not only reduces population numbers but can also diminish genetic diversity within isolated populations, making them less resilient to environmental changes and disease.
Fortunately, several conservation efforts are underway to protect the Chahoua gecko. New Caledonia has implemented environmental protection laws targeting habitat preservation and curbing illegal poaching. Additionally, some areas where the species is found have been designated as reserves or parks, offering a degree of habitat protection against deforestation and exploitation. Conservation organizations continue to monitor population health and habitat quality, and habitat restoration projects aim to replace degraded forests with native vegetation to support wildlife, including the Chahoua gecko.
Captive breeding programs have played a significant role in conservation and may prove pivotal in ensuring the long-term survival of the species. The gecko breeds well under human care, and established captive lines exist among both private keepers and zoological institutions. These programs have not only helped alleviate pressure on wild populations by reducing the demand for illegally collected specimens but also serve as an important genetic reservoir. Though no formal reintroduction initiatives have been publicly reported yet, captive populations could be instrumental in future rewilding efforts if habitat conditions allow.
In summary, while the species is not currently at immediate risk of extinction, its Vulnerable status underscores the urgent need for proactive conservation measures. Continued habitat protection, effective enforcement of wildlife laws, and responsible captive breeding are crucial to preventing further population decline. Reptile keepers should support conservation-minded practices by obtaining specimens from reputable breeders and advocating for the protection of the gecko’s fragile native ecosystem.

Native Range

The Chahoua gecko is native exclusively to New Caledonia, a chain of islands in the southwest Pacific. More specifically, it is found on the larger islands of Grande Terre and the Isle of Pines, as well as adjacent smaller islets. This species has a relatively restricted geographic range compared to other New Caledonian geckos, such as the crested gecko. Despite its smaller range, the Chahoua gecko occurs in multiple isolated populations, often separated by mountain ranges or stretches of unsuitable habitat, which has contributed to minor morphological and coloration differences between regional populations.

In terms of macrohabitat, the Chahoua gecko primarily inhabits subtropical to tropical moist broadleaf forests. These forest systems are characterized by high humidity, dense canopy cover, and a complex vegetative structure. The species shows a strong preference for humid forested environments that offer abundant vertical space and foliage cover. Within these macrohabitats, the Chahoua gecko utilizes specific microhabitats that provide shelter, humidity retention, and opportunities for foraging. It is commonly found in vine tangles, tree hollows, under loose bark, among epiphytic plants, and in the dense foliage of mid- to upper-canopy vegetation. Their prehensile tails and robust limbs are well-adapted for navigating these complex arboreal microhabitats.

The regional climate is one of the most critical factors shaping the Chahoua gecko's ecological niche. New Caledonia experiences a humid subtropical climate with pronounced seasonality. Daytime temperatures in their natural range typically fall between 72°F and 85°F for much of the year. However, temperatures may occasionally fall below 65°F during the cooler dry season, which typically spans from June to September. Conversely, in the wet season, which peaks from December through March, daytime highs may approach 88°F, with nights remaining warm and humid. Annual rainfall averages between 40 and 60 inches, depending on elevation and proximity to the coast. Humidity remains high year-round, often between 70% and 90%, which supports both the gecko's delicate skin and the moisture-retaining features of its preferred habitats.

Elevation is another influencing factor in habitat suitability. Chahoua geckos are generally found in lowland to mid-elevation environments, typically ranging from sea level up to approximately 3,000 feet. They are most commonly associated with areas below 2,000 feet where primary rainforest habitat is intact and consistent humidity conditions are easiest to maintain. At higher elevations, forest composition changes, and cooler temperatures reduce the availability of suitable microhabitats, limiting the species’ upward distribution.

Several environmental features are essential for the survival of wild Chahoua geckos. The availability of mature trees with deep canopies supports their arboreal lifestyle, offering vertical foraging space, nesting sites, and shelter. Access to consistent surface or atmospheric moisture is vital because they rely both on ambient humidity and surface condensation for hydration, as they are known to lap water droplets from leaves and branches. Additionally, these geckos do well in areas with abundant epiphytes and mosses, which help retain moisture and house insect prey. While not strictly territorial, the species appears to prefer stable home ranges with specific types of vegetation, particularly native hardwoods and palms. Undisturbed forest floors enriched with decaying organic matter provide nesting opportunities, as females often descend to lay eggs in moist yet well-drained soil. Collectively, these habitat features must remain intact for populations to remain viable in the wild.

Behavior

The Chahoua gecko is a crepuscular species, meaning it is most active during dawn and dusk. This activity pattern allows it to avoid both the heat of the day and the cooler night temperatures. In its natural environment, which consists primarily of the humid, forested regions of New Caledonia, the gecko spends much of the day nestled in tree hollows, under leaf litter, or clinging to shaded trunks. During the twilight hours, it emerges to forage and explore, making use of its excellent climbing ability. Seasonal changes influence its behavior significantly; during cooler months, Chahoua geckos become less active and may enter a period of brumation, during which they lower their metabolic rate and reduce food intake. During the breeding season, which is typically aligned with warmer spring and summer months, activity increases as males begin searching for mates and become more territorial.

Socially, the Chahoua gecko is generally solitary outside of the breeding season. Individuals maintain separate territories and usually avoid contact with conspecifics unless they are seeking a mate. Males are particularly territorial and may display aggression toward other males, especially in confined spaces such as captivity. In their native range, confrontations are rare due to abundant space and cover, but when housed together in limited enclosures, these behaviors can escalate. During courtship, males may exhibit tail waving, body posturing, and vocalizations to attract females and assert dominance. Although parental care is not strongly developed in this species, females are known to lay eggs in moist, concealed locations and may return to inspect the nesting site periodically. However, they do not guard or care for the hatchlings after they emerge.

Chahoua geckos are highly responsive to environmental stimuli. Temperature shifts can change their posture and activity levels significantly; they bask less overtly than diurnal lizards, but will position themselves in warmer microclimates to raise their body temperature during cooler periods. In the presence of UVB and appropriate light cycles, their behavior aligns closely with natural circadian rhythms. Relative humidity plays a crucial role in their comfort and activity, with levels around 60–80% promoting optimal shedding and hydration. Sudden drops in humidity often lead to decreased activity and increased hiding. When confronted with a potential predator or a sudden change in their environment, Chahoua geckos rely on camouflage and stillness as a first line of defense. Their mottled green, brown, and red coloring allows them to remain nearly invisible against tree bark and foliage. When threatened more directly, they may vocalize with chirps or growls, execute a defensive tail lash, or drop their tail—a process known as autotomy—to distract the predator and flee.

Behaviorally, Chahoua geckos are unique for several reasons. They exhibit a prehensile tail that aids in climbing and stability, a feature uncommon in many other gecko species. Their tail is often used as a fifth limb when navigating branches or hanging from foliage. Unlike most geckos, Chahouas have fleshy, adhesive toe pads and tail tips, allowing them to adhere to and climb various surfaces with ease, even glass. Another distinguishing behavioral feature is their inclination toward vocal communication, which includes chirps, clicks, and growls used during mating, conflict, or when startled. In hunting, they demonstrate selective ambush tactics. They locate prey primarily through visual cues, reacting to movement before striking with a sudden lunge. Their diet in the wild is omnivorous, including insects, soft fruits, nectar, and occasionally small vertebrates, requiring adaptive foraging strategies that are both active and opportunistic.

In captivity, these behaviors are often preserved but can be modified by enclosure conditions. Captive Chahoua geckos may display reduced foraging and territorial behaviors if kept in overly simplistic environments, emphasizing the need for vertical space, complex climbing structures, and foliage to mimic their natural habitat. They may become more accustomed to human presence and handling, which can reduce flight responses but may also lead to chronic stress if handled too frequently or improperly. Feeding behaviors in captivity may also differ; captive geckos often accept fruit-based diets and commercially available insect prey more readily, but this can lead to obesity or malnutrition if not managed carefully. Aggression between individuals is more common in confined spaces, reinforcing best practices that recommend solitary housing outside of breeding periods. Enrichment, such as rotating climbing structures, providing live feeding opportunities, and mimicking seasonal light and moisture cycles, helps maintain natural behaviors and supports overall physical and psychological health.

Captivity Requirements

Enclosure Design

Chahoua geckos, native to the rainforests of New Caledonia, thrive best in vertical enclosures that reflect their arboreal lifestyle. For juveniles, a minimum enclosure size of 12 x 12 x 18 inches is acceptable, as it helps maintain humidity and allows for close observation during growth stages. However, as they mature, they require more space. For adult Chahoua geckos, a minimum enclosure of 18 x 18 x 24 inches is recommended. Larger enclosures, such as 24 x 18 x 24 or even 24 x 24 x 36 inches, are ideal for promoting increased activity and allowing for the inclusion of complex environmental enrichment.

Enclosure materials should offer both durability and adequate ventilation. Glass and PVC enclosures are suitable, with the latter offering better heat retention and lightweight handling. Screen vents should be included to provide airflow without drastically reducing humidity. Ideally, enclosures with front-opening doors allow for safer interactions and reduce stress compared to top access. Screen tops are not recommended unless additional humidity control measures are implemented, as these geckos require stable moisture conditions.

Interior design should mimic the geckos’ humid forest habitat. Vertical climbing areas such as cork rounds, ghost wood, mopani, or securely fixed branches should be arranged to encourage natural locomotion. Multiple hides should be distributed throughout the enclosure, including high-mounted cork hollows or leaf clusters, as well as lower-level shelters. Live or artificial plants provide both cover and visual security; bromeliads, pothos, and philodendrons work well in bioactive arrangements. The enclosure must be escape-proof due to the species' strong climbing capabilities and curiosity. Door latches should be secure, and sliding doors should be reinforced with locking mechanisms or clips to prevent accidental opening.

Lighting and Heating

Though Chahoua geckos are crepuscular to nocturnal, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, they still benefit from low-level UVB lighting. A high-quality linear T5 UVB lamp emitting 5-7% UVB should be placed over a mesh top or canopy mounted inside the enclosure. The lamp should span at least half the length of the enclosure and be positioned around 12 to 14 inches above the highest basking point to prevent overexposure. UVB should be replaced every 12 months, even if still visibly functional, as output diminishes over time. Proper UVB exposure supports vitamin D3 synthesis and helps regulate calcium metabolism.

A thermal gradient must be maintained to allow thermoregulation. The daytime ambient temperature in the cooler areas should remain between 72 and 78°F, while the basking area should reach no higher than 80 to 82°F. Chahoua geckos are sensitive to overheating, and temperatures above 85°F can be harmful. At night, temperatures can drop as low as 68°F without adverse effects, replicating natural nighttime conditions and supporting seasonal hormone cycles. All heating elements, such as ceramic heat emitters or radiant heat panels, must be used in conjunction with reliable thermostats to maintain safe and consistent levels. Avoid the use of heat rocks, which can cause severe burns.

Photoperiod control is also essential. A 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle should be maintained year-round, although a slight reduction to 10 hours of light during the winter months can be implemented to simulate seasonal changes. This shift may support more natural behaviors, such as breeding readiness or seasonal appetite variation. Using a timer ensures consistency in the light cycle.

Substrate and Enrichment

Given the Chahoua gecko's preference for high humidity and forest floor leaf litter in its native habitat, a substrate that supports moisture retention while minimizing compaction risk is essential. A mix of BabiChip with ReptiEarth works particularly well, offering both texture and moisture-holding properties, while also supporting burrowing or egg-laying if the geckos are breeding. ReptiChip's clean, coconut-based material resists mold and is easy to spot-clean. Additionally, a substrate such as TropicalBase works well in bioactive type enclosures. 

Enrichment should replicate the dynamic, three-dimensional environment these geckos occupy in the wild. Vertical and horizontal branches of various diameters encourage climbing and jumping, key components of their natural behavior. Natural or artificial vines and leaf clusters provide cover and perching spots. Several tightly enclosed hides should be provided at different heights—Chahoua geckos prefer secure, tight-fitting spaces to retreat into during daylight hours. Environmental complexity also improves psychological well-being and reduces stress-induced behaviors.

Interactive elements can be rotated regularly to stimulate exploration and prevent habituation. This includes rearranging branches, adding moss-covered cork bark, or rotating safe, live potted plants. Creating varied microclimates within the enclosure by placing damp moss or leaf litter beneath hides encourages natural humidity-seeking and thermal behavior, contributing to a healthier captive lifestyle.

Humidity and Hydration

Maintaining appropriate humidity is crucial for the health of Chahoua geckos. Optimal relative humidity levels should remain between 60% and 80%, with periodic peaks up to 90% to replicate morning dew and rainfall. These levels support skin health, successful shedding, respiratory function, and hydration. Humidity should drop slightly during the day and rise again after misting in the evening, mirroring natural environmental cycles.

Humidity can be maintained using a combination of methods. The substrate mix of BabiChip and ReptiEarth helps retain moisture when slightly misted. Daily misting is essential, especially in the morning and late evening, to stimulate drinking and raise ambient humidity. Misting should be moderate—not so much that the enclosure becomes saturated. Using a handheld pressure sprayer or automated misting system provides consistency. A cool-mist ultrasonic fogger may be employed for enclosures that struggle to maintain adequate levels, particularly in dry climates.

While Chahoua geckos are known to lap water droplets from leaves and enclosure walls, a shallow water dish should still be included to ensure supplemental hydration. The dish should be refreshed daily and placed in a shaded area of the enclosure to prevent microbial buildup and excessive evaporation. Observing geckos drinking directly from droplets post-misting is common and should be part of regular husbandry monitoring.

Accurate and consistent monitoring of humidity is achieved using digital hygrometers with probes placed at mid to upper enclosure heights, where the geckos spend most of their time. Avoid relying on analog dial hygrometers, which are frequently inaccurate. Maintaining proper hydration through regulated moisture levels and drinking opportunities prevents common health problems such as retained shed and dehydration-induced lethargy.

With a carefully constructed habitat and consistent maintenance, Chahoua geckos can thrive in captivity, exhibiting natural behaviors and vibrant health for years.

Diet & Supplementation

In its natural habitat, the Chahoua gecko is an omnivorous species with a diet that reflects a balance between animal protein and plant-based matter. Native to the humid forests of New Caledonia, it actively forages in the canopy for a variety of food sources. In the wild, it consumes a diverse array of invertebrates such as moths, crickets, beetles, grasshoppers, and spiders. It also feeds on soft fruits, nectar, and pollen. Occasionally, it may opportunistically consume smaller vertebrates such as hatchling lizards or small frogs, though this is a less frequent dietary component. The inclusion of fruits and nectar in its wild diet plays a significant role in energy intake, particularly in seasons of high fruit availability, establishing the gecko as an ecological pollinator and potential seed disperser in its native environment.

Chahoua geckos are primarily nocturnal feeders, using a combination of visual cues and chemical detection to locate food. Their large, sensitive eyes allow for precise visual tracking in low light, helping them detect movement from prey insects. In addition to visual hunting, they use their well-developed Jacobson’s organ to process chemical signals from potential food, often extending their tongues to sample airborne particles. They exhibit ambush and active foraging behaviors—lying in wait for prey to pass by or methodically moving through their environment in search of insects and ripe fruits. Their hunting strategy relies more on stealth and strike precision than speed, and they subdue prey items using their jaws rather than constriction or venom.

Dietary needs change with age and environmental conditions. Juveniles are more protein-dependent due to the high energy and nutrient demand for growth and development. Hatchlings and young geckos should be offered live insect prey more frequently than adults. As individuals mature, their need for fruit-based nutrition increases, particularly in preparation for breeding. Seasonal shifts in the wild, such as changes in temperature and food availability, naturally impact their feeding frequency and dietary balance. During cooler months or dry periods with limited fruit abundance, they may reduce intake and rely more on proteins from available invertebrates. In captivity, keepers should mimic these changes with altered feeding schedules and prey variety to align with natural biological rhythms.

In a captive setting, an optimal diet requires careful replication of the gecko’s natural nutritional balance. A foundational diet for most keepers consists of commercially available fruit-based gecko diets, which are designed to mimic natural nectar and fruit intake while providing essential vitamins and amino acids. These should be supplemented with live insect prey such as crickets, dubia roaches, and occasionally waxworms or black soldier fly larvae. Insects must be gut-loaded and dusted with a balanced calcium and vitamin D3 supplement to promote healthy bone development, especially critical during growth and breeding phases. The balance between protein and fruit intake should shift with age—juveniles receiving more frequent insect feedings, adults being offered fruit-based diets three to four times per week and insects one to two times per week.

Replicating certain aspects of the wild diet can be challenging. Wild fruits and local invertebrates have different nutrient profiles than captive foods, and overly relying on commercial powders or a limited range of insects may lead to nutritional deficiencies or obesity. Fruits offered in captivity can include papaya, mango, banana, and fig, though these need to be used in moderation due to varying sugar content. It is essential to maintain variety and avoid sugary or citrus fruits that may disrupt digestion. Some feeding issues in captivity include food refusal during periods of stress, shedding, or temperature fluctuations. Obesity may arise from overuse of fatty feeder insects like waxworms or too frequent feedings. Malnutrition generally results from insufficient supplementation or lack of prey diversity.

To encourage natural feeding behaviors and prevent dietary problems, enrichment strategies and varied presentation methods are recommended. Providing feeding platforms at varying heights in the enclosure promotes arboreal foraging behavior. Allowing live insects to move freely within the enclosure can stimulate hunting responses and provide mental stimulation. Rotating the types of feeder insects offered, as well as altering feeding times to correlate with active nocturnal periods, helps prevent behavioral monotony and supports overall health. Observing feeding behavior regularly is crucial for monitoring dietary preferences, health status, and any need for dietary adjustment based on age, reproductive status, or seasonal changes in habitat conditions.

Reproduction

Chahoua geckos reach sexual maturity at approximately 2 to 3 years of age. This species exhibits mild sexual dimorphism, with females typically possessing a bulkier build and slightly less prominent crests than males. Males display a hemipenal bulge at the base of the tail and may exhibit more defined musculature in the head and neck region. Behavioral cues also assist in sexual identification, particularly during breeding season, when males become increasingly active and may engage in persistent courtship behaviors.

Courtship in Chahoua geckos typically involves a series of ritualized interactions. Males approach females cautiously, using tongue-flicking to detect pheromones and assess receptivity. If the female is receptive, the male will initiate gentle biting behavior around the neck or flank area, often leading to copulation. These interactions can occasionally appear aggressive but are generally not harmful when both individuals are healthy and compatible. Mate selection in captivity is influenced by individual temperaments; some females may reject certain males despite optimal conditions, necessitating multiple introductions with different potential partners.

Environmental cues are crucial for stimulating the reproductive cycle in Chahoua geckos, which are naturally attuned to seasonal changes. In captivity, breeding is most successful when keepers simulate a seasonal cycle. A winter cooldown period of approximately two months is recommended, during which daytime ambient temperatures are reduced to around 68–72°F, with nighttime lows dropping to near 65°F. Photoperiod should be decreased to 10 hours of light per day to mimic winter conditions in their native habitat. Humidity should be maintained at moderate levels, around 60–70%, avoiding excessive fluctuations. Following the cooldown, increasing temperatures to a daytime range of 75–78°F and adjusting the photoperiod to 12–14 hours of light will typically trigger reproductive behavior. Increasing ambient humidity to 70–80% during this transition further supports breeding readiness by simulating the wet season.

Chahoua geckos are oviparous, with females producing clutches typically consisting of two leathery-shelled eggs. They do not require a highly specialized breeding enclosure, but successful copulation and egg laying depend on specific spatial and environmental provisions. Breeding pairs may be housed together during the reproductive season, though it is recommended to monitor introductions closely due to potential incompatibility. A well-planted enclosure with ample hiding spaces and visual barriers helps reduce stress during cohabitation. Nesting sites should include moist, loose substrate in securely placed containers or naturalistic microhabitats where females can dig and lay their eggs. ReptiEarth or a mix of sphagnum moss offers suitable nesting mediums, which must remain consistently moist without becoming waterlogged.

Captive breeding can be met with several challenges. One of the most common is behavioral incompatibility, particularly with aggressive males or females that are unreceptive. If repeated introductions fail, temporary separation followed by reintroduction after environmental cycling may assist in harmonizing reproductive timing. Stress-related reproductive failures also occur when enclosures are overcrowded or lack adequate shelter, leading to a breakdown in natural courtship behaviors. Providing appropriate habitat complexity and minimizing disturbances during the breeding season can improve reproductive success. Additionally, failure to replicate natural seasonal changes in temperature and photoperiod remains a leading cause of reproductive inactivity in captive populations. Keepers must carefully coordinate environmental transitions to mimic wild breeding conditions, which are integral to triggering hormonal changes necessary for fertility.

By addressing these species-specific needs—proper pairing, environmental cues, and stress management—Chahoua geckos can be bred successfully in captivity, supporting both conservation goals and responsible herpetoculture.

Incubation & Neonate Care

The Chahoua gecko is an oviparous species, meaning reproduction involves the female laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young. After successful copulation, females typically produce a clutch of two eggs, with clutches laid approximately every four to six weeks during the breeding season. In captivity, it is common practice to remove and incubate these eggs artificially for improved hatch success and environmental control.

Optimal incubation of Chahoua gecko eggs requires careful regulation of temperature and humidity. The ideal temperature for incubation ranges from 72°F to 78°F. This moderate temperature range reflects the gecko’s native habitat in the montane and coastal rainforests, where ambient temperatures tend to be stable and mild. Incubation periods vary based on temperature; eggs incubated at around 74°F generally hatch in 90 to 120 days, while slightly warmer conditions (up to 78°F) may shorten the incubation time to around 70 to 90 days. However, care should be taken not to exceed 80°F for extended periods, as this can increase deformities and mortality. Chahoua geckos are believed to exhibit temperature-dependent sex determination, although it is less pronounced than in some other reptiles. Slight shifts in the incubation temperature may influence the sex ratio, with warmer temperatures skewing toward males and cooler temperatures favoring females; however, genetic and other environmental variables can also affect outcomes.

Humidity during the incubation process should remain between 70% and 80%. To maintain this, the preferred incubation substrate is a moisture-retentive medium such as vermiculite or perlite, moistened to achieve a 1:1 weight ratio of water to substrate. Eggs should be partially buried in the substrate or placed in shallow imprints to keep them stable while ensuring adequate air exchange. Regular inspection is necessary to monitor mold growth, dehydration, or collapse of the eggs, which may indicate inadequate humidity or temperature instability. During the final days prior to hatching, a slight decrease in humidity may promote successful pipping, though excessively dry conditions must be avoided.

The hatching process is generally predictable and occurs without the need for intervention. As hatching nears, eggs may dimple slightly and become less rigid. Neonates use their egg tooth to slit the leathery shell and emerge, often over the course of several hours. Hatchlings typically rest inside the egg for some time before fully exiting. Parental involvement in this species is minimal, and in captivity, adult geckos may inadvertently injure or cannibalize hatchlings if kept in the same enclosure, so it is strongly advised to separate eggs and neonates from adults. Failed pipping or severely delayed hatching may occasionally necessitate assisted hatching, but only by experienced keepers, as premature intervention can cause death.

Once hatched, neonate Chahoua geckos are approximately 3 to 3.5 inches in length, including the tail. They should be placed in separate, appropriately sized enclosures that allow for close monitoring and reduce competition. A simple setup with paper towel or sphagnum moss substrate, small branches for climbing, and ample foliage or hides provides both cleanliness and security. Daytime temperatures should be maintained between 75°F and 78°F with a slight drop at night to around 72°F. Humidity must be kept at 70% to 80%, with regular misting to ensure hydration, especially critical in the first weeks after hatching when dehydration is a leading cause of mortality.

Neonates should not be offered food until they have completed their first shed, which usually occurs within 3 to 5 days after hatching. Once shed, hatchlings can be fed a diet of appropriately sized feeder insects such as pinhead crickets or fruit flies, dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, along with small amounts of commercial gecko diet formulated for New Caledonian species. Feeding is typically needed every other day, with close observation to ensure that each animal is eating and defecating regularly. Clean water should be provided via misting and a shallow dish. Handling should be minimal in the early weeks, as neonates are delicate and easily stressed. Regular weight monitoring can help track development, ensuring healthy growth and early identification of any problems such as metabolic bone disease or poor appetite.

With proper care, neonate Chahoua geckos can thrive and begin to exhibit their characteristic robust growth by the second month, at which point more complex enrichment and larger enclosures can be safely introduced to promote natural behaviors and continued development.

Conclusion

Caring for Chahoua geckos in captivity requires a detailed, species-specific approach that reflects their unique ecological and behavioral adaptations. As medium-sized, arboreal reptiles from New Caledonia's dense humid forests, these geckos rely on a stable, moisture-rich environment with abundant vertical space and secure microhabitats. Successful husbandry must therefore account for their natural history—particularly their environmental preferences, dietary habits, and behavioral cycles.

Enclosure design should replicate the structural complexity of the rainforest, with adequate vertical climbing space, secure hides, and a humidity-retentive substrate to support thermoregulation, hydration, and natural behaviors. Lighting and heating must reflect a moderate thermal gradient, avoiding excessive warmth and ensuring gentle UVB exposure to facilitate proper calcium metabolism. Seasonal light and temperature fluctuations further enhance behavioral and reproductive cues in captivity, supporting physiological rhythms such as brumation and breeding readiness.

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in the gecko’s overall health and longevity. A diet that mirrors their omnivorous tendencies—comprising both fruit-based formulations and live, gut-loaded insect prey—supports robust growth, reproductive success, and long-term wellness. Age-specific dietary adjustments and regular supplementation are necessary to prevent malnutrition or metabolic disorders. Encouraging natural foraging behavior through feeding enrichment supports mental and physical health, aligning captive conditions more closely with wild activity patterns.

Captive reproduction of Chahoua geckos is achievable with careful pair selection, appropriate environmental cycling, and diligent nesting site management. Incubation of eggs requires closely controlled thermal and humidity conditions to ensure high viability and normal development. Neonates demand stable, simple environments with high humidity and careful monitoring in their first weeks, as early developmental support is critical for survival and healthy maturation.

As a species listed as Vulnerable, the Chahoua gecko’s conservation status underscores the broader importance of responsible reptile keeping. By sourcing captive-bred individuals, maintaining genetically diverse breeding efforts, and advocating for habitat protection in New Caledonia, keepers play a vital role in conservation. When properly housed and cared for, Chahoua geckos can thrive in captivity for up to two decades, offering an enriching and ecologically meaningful experience for conscientious herpetoculturists.