The Basics
Enclosure Needs
1. Enclosure Size
- Minimum Size: 2-gallon tank.
- Secure and manageable space for hatchlings.
- Never put Gargoyle Geckos together! They are cannibalistic.
2. Temperature
- Warm Side: 80-82°F (27-28°C).
- Cool Side: 70-75°F (21-24°C).
- Nighttime Temp: 68-70°F (19-21°C).
3. Humidity
- Aim for 60-70% humidity.
- Mist twice daily to maintain humidity levels.
4. Cleaning
- Spot clean daily for waste removal.
- Thorough clean monthly, replacing substrate.
5. Decor & Hiding Spots
- Small, secure hiding spots (plastic caves).
- Low climbing structures (small branches).
6. Water
- If you mist your tank twices daily no water dish is needed.
- Fresh water is essential for hydration.
1. Enclosure Size
- Minimum Size: 10-gallon tank.
- Spacious enough for subadults to move around comfortably.
- Never put Gargoyle Geckos together! They are cannibalistic.
2. Temperature
- Warm Side: 80-82°F (27-28°C).
- Cool Side: 70-75°F (21-24°C).
- Nighttime Temp: 68-70°F (19-21°C).
3. Humidity
- Aim for 60-70% humidity.
- Mist twice daily to maintain humidity levels.
4. Cleaning
- Spot clean daily for waste removal.
- Thorough clean monthly, replacing substrate.
5. Decor & Hiding Spots
- Provide secure hiding spots (e.g., plastic caves).
- Include climbing structures (small branches).
- Offer a variety of decor for enrichment.
6. Water
- If you mist your tank twices daily no water dish is needed.
- Fresh water is essential for hydration.
1. Enclosure Size
- Minimum Size: 20-gallon tank.
- Ensure ample space for adult size and movement.
- Never put Gargoyle Geckos together! They are cannibalistic.
2. Temperature
- Warm Side: 80-82°F (27-28°C).
- Cool Side: 70-75°F (21-24°C).
- Nighttime Temp: 68-70°F (19-21°C).
3. Humidity
- Aim for 60-70% humidity.
- Mist twice daily to maintain humidity levels.
4. Cleaning
- Spot clean daily for waste removal.
- Thorough clean monthly, replacing substrate.
5. Decor & Hiding Spots
- Provide larger hiding spots (e.g., caves or logs).
- Include climbing branches for enrichment.
- Use live or artificial plants for added cover.
6. Water
- If you mist your tank twices daily no water dish is needed.
- Fresh water is essential for hydration.
Substrate Shenanigans!
Natural Substrates: The Fancy Stuff!
- DIY Delight: Whip up a magical mix of 60% organic topsoil and 40% peat moss—voilà, you are a substrate wizard!
- Cozy Natural Bedding: The snuggliest natural reptile bedding around.
- Reptile Soil: Because your scaly friend deserves a five-star spa treatment.
- Bioactive Kit: For those who want to throw a wild party in their terrarium!
Layer Up!
Put down 2-4 inches of your substrate masterpiece to keep things cozy and humid. Think of it as a fluffy mattress for your reptile friend! Remember to give it a daily tidying and a full makeover every month. For top-tier results, add a drainage layer like hydro balls or a moisture retention layer to keep things from getting soggy—nobody likes a swampy home!
Im a big fan of natural substrates because they hold onto moisture like a squirrel hoarding nuts for winter, and they look super pretty too! But watch out—these loose particles can be tricky for tiny critters under 13g. Ingesting them might lead to a bit of a tummy ache!
Bioactive Bliss!
If you want to take it up a notch, bioactive substrates are the way to go! They create a fantastic team-up between your gargoyle gecko, some happy plants, and little cleanup crew critters that love to munch on waste. Its like having your own self-cleaning terrarium—magic!
Artificial Substrates: The No-Fuss Friends!
- Paper Towels: Perfect for a quick clean-up and a fresh start! I personally use paper towels for easier cleanup, especially since my whole family has allergies—including me! Switching to paper towels has made it possible for me to finally have pets without sneezing my head off.
- Shop Towels: Because every reptile deserves a splash of color!
Bad Substrates: The No-Gos!
Now, let's talk about the “bad apples” of the substrate world! Some keepers say loose substrates should be avoided like the plague, fearing impaction for geckos of all sizes. But fear not! As long as you are on top of your husbandry game, substrate impaction is not a big worry for most. Larger geckos are like little champions and can handle swallowing a few stray particles just fine!
Watch Out For:
- Large-Particle Beddings: Like chunky bark—yikes! The impaction risk is real here.
- Wood-Based Substrates: These guys can contain harmful compounds. No thanks!
- Carpet Substrates: Looks cool, but those pesky fibers can snag and hurt delicate gecko toes—ouch!
- Coconut Fiber: This stuff expands in the stomach like a balloon—definitely not what we want!
Gargoyle Gecko Lighting Needs: Shine On!
Let There Be Light!
First things first—gargoyle geckos are not exactly fans of blinding sunbaths. Think of them as the introverts of the reptile world. They prefer a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere, like a comfy café on a rainy day!
UVB Rays: A Splash of Sunshine!
Even though they love the shade, our scaly friends still need a sprinkle of UVB light! This magical sunshine helps them absorb calcium and stay healthy. Aim for a low-output UVB bulb, positioned about 12-18 inches above their habitat—just enough to give them a sun-kissed glow without overdoing it!
Daylight & Nighttime: The Perfect Balance!
Keep the lighting on for about 10-12 hours a day, mimicking the natural cycle of day and night. But when the sun sets, its time for a cozy night light! Use a gentle, red or blue bulb to help them navigate their world without blinding them—think of it as their own nighttime disco!
Heat: Warm and Toasty!
While they dont need a sauna, gargoyle geckos enjoy a nice warm spot in their habitat. A basking area should be around 80-85°F (27-29°C). This warmth helps them digest their food and feel all snuggly inside. Use a heat mat or basking bulb, but remember, no scorching hot spots—these geckos like it cozy!
Keeping it Cozy!
Lastly, always monitor the temperatures and humidity levels. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to keep an eye on your geckos environment. After all, nobody wants a cranky gecko throwing a hissy fit because its too hot or too cold!
Gargoyle Gecko Diet: Yum Yum!
Whats on the Menu?
Gargoyle geckos are the ultimate foodies of the reptile world! Their diet primarily consists of fruits, insects, and specially formulated gecko diets. Think of them as the gourmet eaters of the reptile kingdom—no boring meals for these guys!
Pangea: The Fruity Delight!
Pangea gecko food is like a smoothie for your scaly friend! Its packed with fruits, vitamins, and minerals to keep them happy and healthy. Available in a variety of flavors, this food is a hit among gargoyle geckos. Just mix it with water to create a delicious, slurp-worthy treat that your gecko will adore!
Repashy: The All-in-One Wonder!
Repashy gecko food is another fantastic option! This powder mix is designed to provide a well-rounded diet, rich in nutrients. Just add water, and watch your gecko dive into a feast! Its perfect for picky eaters and provides a great alternative to live insects.
Variety is the Spice of Life!
Mixing things up is essential! Alongside Pangea and Repashy, feel free to offer live insects like crickets and mealworms as treats. Just remember to dust them with calcium powder for that extra health boost—because who does not love a sprinkle of goodness on their food?
Feeding Schedule: Time to Chow Down!
Feed your gargoyle gecko about 2-3 times a week, offering a mix of gecko food and insects. Make sure to provide fresh food and remove any leftovers to keep their home clean and tidy. A happy gecko is a well-fed gecko!
Gargoyle Gecko Handling Care: Tread Lightly!
Handling Preferences
Gargoyle geckos are known for their unique personalities! While many prefer not to be held, some can be quite friendly and may seek short moments of interaction. It's important to recognize each gecko's comfort level.
Short Snuggles
If your gargoyle gecko enjoys being held, keep it brief! A quick cuddle can be a delightful experience, but never force them to stay in your hands. Respect their boundaries to build trust.
Watch Out for Jumps!
Be prepared for unexpected leaps! Gargoyle geckos are natural jumpers and may suddenly spring from your hands. Always handle them in a safe environment to avoid accidents.
Creating a Safe Space
When handling your gecko, make sure to provide a secure area. Low surfaces with soft landing spots are ideal. This helps prevent injuries if they decide to take a leap!
Building Trust Takes Time
Spend time near your gecko's enclosure without reaching in. Allow them to observe you and get comfortable. With patience, many geckos will warm up to gentle handling over time!