New Caledonian bumpy gecko
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| New Caledonian bumpy gecko | ||||||||||||||||
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| Rhacodactylus auriculatus Bavay, 1869 |
Rhacodactylus auriculatus, commonly known as the New Caledonian bumpy gecko or Gargoyle gecko, is a species of gecko found in the wild only on the southern end of the island of New Caledonia. Its habitat is threatened by deforestation on the island. This gecko, along with several other Rhacodactylus species are being considered for protective measures by CITES. This gecko was first described by Bavay in 1869.
The common names of R. auriculatus refer to the two bumps found above the eyes in this species. Other characteristics of this gecko include a thin tail, thin toe pads, and mite pockets found on the rear legs. Gargoyle geckos are an arboreal gecko and generally make their home in scrub forests. this gecko is nocturnal.
Gargoyle geckos make interesting terrarium inhabitants. In captivity, these geckos readily accept live foods such as crickets and wax worms. They also will accept fruit mashes and fruit baby food. The female lays two eggs per clutch which hatch 60-90 days after they are laid. Males should be housed separately or as a part of a breeding pair or trio with females. Males housed together will often fight. Females are social and can be housed together.