GECKO FANCY GARGOYLE (Rhacodactylus auriculatus)

GECKO FANCY GARGOYLE (Rhacodactylus auriculatus)

Full Description

Here’s a complete Fancy Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus) care guide — perfect for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers.

Overview

  • Common Name: Fancy Gargoyle Gecko

  • Scientific Name: Rhacodactylus auriculatus

  • Lifespan: 15–20+ years

  • Size: 7–10 inches (including tail)

  • Temperament: Generally calm and handleable with regular interaction

  • Activity: Nocturnal (most active at night)

Enclosure

Tank Size

Gecko Age Minimum Size
Juvenile 10–20 gallons (or equivalent vertical space)
Adult 20 gallons minimum; 18x18x24″ or larger preferred

Height is important – Gargoyle Geckos are semi-arboreal and enjoy climbing.

Best Enclosures

  • Glass terrariums with front-opening doors

  • Well-ventilated screen-top or cross-vent setups

Substrate

  • Best: Bioactive (with isopods/springtails), coco fiber, or paper towels

  • Avoid: Loose particulate substrates without supervision

Decor

  • Branches, cork bark, vines, and plants (live or fake)

  • Multiple hides (top and bottom levels)

  • Moist hide for shedding

️ Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

  • Ideal range: 72–78°F (22–25°C)

  • Night drop: okay down to 65°F (18°C)

  • Do not exceed 82°F – they are heat sensitive

  • Supplemental heating rarely needed in normal room temps

Humidity

  • 50–70% average

  • Mist once or twice daily (light misting in the morning, heavier at night)

  • Provide a humidity gradient and dry-out period daily to prevent mold or bacteria

Hydration

  • Gargoyle geckos lick water droplets from leaves and enclosure walls

  • A shallow water dish is optional but recommended

Diet

Staple: Commercial Gecko Diet (CGD)

  • Example brands: Pangea, Repashy, BPZ, Zoo Med

  • Mix fresh every 2–3 days

  • Serve in a small dish on a raised ledge or feeding station

Live Insects (1–2x/week)

  • Crickets, dubia roaches, and silkworms (occasionally)

  • Dust with calcium (with D3 if no UVB used)

  • Feed in a separate container to avoid loose insects stressing the gecko

Supplements

  • Calcium with D3: 1–2x/week if not using UVB

  • Multivitamin: 1x/week

  • Optional: Provide low-intensity UVB (2.0–5.0) on a 12-hour cycle (not required but can enhance long-term health)

Common Health Concerns

  • Shedding problems: Due to low humidity

  • Weight loss or stress: From improper temps or housing

  • Calcium deficiency: If not supplemented properly

  • Aggression (rare): May occur if housed with another gecko — best kept solo

Handling & Temperament

  • Start slow — they may jump or run when young

  • Handle 2–3x/week for short periods (5–10 minutes)

  • Support body gently; allow them to walk on your hands

  • Wash hands before/after handling

✅ Supplies Checklist

  • Vertical enclosure (18″x18″x24″ min)

  • Coco fiber or bioactive substrate

  • Branches, vines, hides, and foliage

  • Spray bottle or automatic mister

  • Digital thermometer & hygrometer

  • Commercial gecko diet

  • Calcium & multivitamin supplements

  • Feeding ledge/dish

  • Optional: Low-watt UVB light

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