Care Guide
Overview
- Common Name: Leachianus, Leachies, New Caledonian Giant Gecko
- Scientific Name: Rhacodactylus leachianus
- Origin: New Caledonia
- Size: 9-17 inches (largest gecko species)
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Temperament: Territorial, can be aggressive, strong bite
Enclosure Setup
Tank Size
- Minimum: 24"x18"x24"
- Recommended: 24"x18"x36" or larger
Substrate
- Our Mixture: Bioactive Mix
Decor
- Cork bark tubes
- Vertical branches & climbing structures
- Dense foliage
- Multiple hiding areas
Temperature and Heating
Temperature Gradient
- Basking Spot: 90–95°F
- Warm side: 80–85°F
- Cool side: 75–78°F
- Night temps: Can drop to 70–72°F
Heating Equipment
- Halogen basking bulb (preferred)
- Ceramic heat emitter (if needed at night)
Humidity
- Target: 60-80% preferably with fluctuations (drier during the day, more humid at night)
Lighting
- UVB: Low-level UVB beneficial but optional
- Use 5-7% UVB tube placed over basking area
- Photoperiod: 10-12 hours daily
Diet
Staples
- Commercial gecko diet (Repashy/Pangea type formulas)
- Insects (1-2x per week):
- Dust with Calcium + D3
- Crickets
- Dubia Roaches
- Mealworms
- Occasional Superworms
Feeding Schedule
- Adults: 2-3 feedings per week
- Juveniles: every other day
Water:
- Provide a shallow water dish at all times though they will most commonly lick droplets from misting off leaves
Behavior and Handling
- Nocturnal and secretive
- Can be territorial and vocal
- Bite force is strong (use caution)
- Best as display animals
Key Care Tips
- Use cork tubes, they love hollow hides
- Night mistings to mimic natural rainforest cycles
- Keep stress low
- Larger Enclosures are better