If you’re looking for an exotic, unique pet that will bring color and excitement to your home, then the Chahoua gecko is the perfect pet for you.
The Chahoua gecko is a fascinating creature that makes an ideal pet for any enthusiast. Boasting large white eyes and strong tails, these eye-catching reptiles hail from the region of New Caledonia where they can reside as arboreal lizards in varying shades such as brick red to dark green depending on their geographic location. Not only are they captivatingly beautiful, but also tranquil yet intelligent enough so that human interaction becomes second nature to them after only a short settling period – perfect for novice owners!
Let’s dive into what it takes to properly care for a chahoua gecko!
Short overview
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Common name | Chahoua gecko, Mossy New Caledonian gecko |
| Size | 10–12 inches (25-30cm) |
| Recommended keepers | Beginner |
| Native region | Tropical forests of New Caledonia |
| Habitat | Broadleaf forests |
| Lifespan | 20 years |
| Diet | Omnivores (plants and insects) |
| Enclosure | Glass, 24x24x36 inches (60x60x90 cm) |
Keeping Chahoua gecko as Pet
Habitat Requirements
With a remarkable ability for climbing, the chahoua gecko is an aptly named acrobatic arboreal creature that requires just the right type of home. To make a suitable habitat to house such graceful and majestic animals, you’ll need more than your average terrarium; these larger-than-standard sized reptiles require good space in which they can hunt, explore and hide – all while making use of their impressive vertical capabilities.
Chahoua Geckos are an incredible tree-dwelling species who can grow up to 12 inches in length. To ensure they have a healthy and stimulating environment, their enclosure should be at least 24″L x 24”W x 36”H or larger if possible. This will enable them to explore and hunt naturally while providing enough climbing space for these incredibly agile reptiles!
Can I house multiple Chahoua geckos together?
No, it’s not advisable to house multiple chahoua geckos together.
Lighting requirements for Chahoua Geckos
Chahoua geckos are creatures of the night and are most active during that time. Their nocturnal behavior means that they tend to favor cooler temperatures, receive minimal indirect UVB exposure during the day, and possess excellent night vision.
Similarly to leopard geckos, these geckos can survive without UVB lighting as long as they obtain sufficient dietary vitamin D3. Nonetheless, their overall health and well-being can be increased by providing one. Furthermore, providing a functional UVB light will help mimic the day-and-night cycle.
Temperature requirements
| Temperature | Range |
|---|---|
| Daytime | 78 °F (ca. 26 °C) to 82 °F (ca. 28 °C) |
| Basking area | 82 °F (ca. 28 °C) to 85 °F (ca. 29 °C) (not above 86 °F) |
| Night time | 65 °F (ca. 18 °C) to 72 °F (ca. 22 °C) |
To ensure proper thermoregulation for your arboreal chahoua gecko, it’s important to position the basking area directly under the heat lamp on a vine or branch. Since the enclosure will be tall, the top near the heat lamp will be the warmest, while the bottom will be the coolest. Therefore, it’s essential to provide vines, branches, and foliage at all levels for your gecko to regulate its body temperature.
You can monitor the basking temperature using a digital probe thermometer by attaching it to the basking surface with a zip tie. Most digital probe thermometers made for reptiles should work well for this purpose.
Humidity in the tank
Chahoua geckos require a high-humidity environment, with humidity levels averaging between 60-80% as measured by a digital probe hygrometer placed in the middle of the enclosure. Consistently high or low humidity levels can result in health issues for your gecko. It’s important to note that humidity levels will naturally vary between the warm and cool areas, and humidity levels may increase at night and decrease during the day, which is normal and healthy for your gecko.
To maintain the appropriate humidity level in the enclosure and provide an additional source of drinking water, you can use a pump-style pressure sprayer like the Exo Terra Mister to moisten the enclosure every evening, and as needed in the morning.
Substrate
Chahoua geckos are arboreal, so they tend to spend minimal time on the ground. While it’s not compulsory to use bedding, it can be advantageous in stabilizing humidity levels and serving as a cushion in case of falls from their perch, which can occur occasionally.
The most suitable substrate to use is a moisture-retentive one that resembles the soil found in their natural habitat. A recommended DIY tropical mix comprises 60% organic topsoil and 40% coconut fiber.
Decorating Your Chahoua Gecko Enclosure
The decorations in your chahoua gecko’s enclosure are crucial for promoting environmental enrichment! These items encourage exercise, stimulate natural instincts, and promote overall well-being, all while enhancing the visual appeal of the terrarium. Without these vital additions, your terrarium is simply a glass box with dirt and a feeding ledge. Despite their impressive ability to climb glass, chahoua geckos still require additional climbing materials and hiding spots that are not on the ground.
To create a suitable environment, consider using branches, vines, magnetic ledges, cork hollows, and both live and artificial foliage. Ensure you arrange these items in a way that encourages your gecko to climb and explore, while also providing a range of options for sleeping during the day.
Chahoua gecko diet
When it comes to feeding your Chahoua gecko, it should be a blend of 50% meal replacement powder and 50% live insects. Their diet closely resembles this of a Crested gecko, so you can use the same premade powder meals, also known as Crested Gecko Diet (KGD).
These meals contain a mic of dried fruits, grains and proteins.
Make sure to place those meals in a wall-mounted feeding ledge as opposed to on the ground.
How often should I feed my Chahoua gecko?
This depends on their age:
- Juveniles (0-12 months) — meal replacement powder daily, insects every other day
- Adults (>12 months) — meal replacement powder every other day, insects every other day
Supplementing your Chahoua gecko’s diet
The KDG contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, making it fortified and balanced. However, feeder insects should be coated lightly with calcium powder to balance the calcium-phosphorus ratio.
There are various calcium supplements available, such as Miner-All Outdoor, that can be used. It is important to follow the directions on the label for best results.
Water requirements
The chahoua gecko has a unique way of quenching its thirst. It often licks water drops that form on the walls of its terrarium due to condensation. But despite this, it’s crucial to provide a separate water bowl for your gecko to drink from. Remember to replace the water in the bowl daily and disinfect it every week to keep your little friend healthy and happy.
Handling Tips
Chahouas are generally very docile creatures, but may still become skittish when being handled or disturbed too much or too often. Therefore, it’s important to handle them gently and allow them time to adjust if they appear nervous or uncomfortable during handling sessions.
Follow these steps to introduce yourself to your gecko properly:
- Wait for Two Weeks: When you bring your gecko home, give it two weeks to adjust to its new environment and become comfortable in its enclosure.
- Start Slowly: After two weeks, slowly introduce yourself to your gecko by placing your hand inside the tank for a minute or so. Do this during the night when the gecko is active. This allows the gecko to get used to your scent and presence.
- Increase Handling Time: After another week, start handling the gecko for a few minutes a few times a week, increasing the time of handling as appropriate.
- Move Slowly: When handling the gecko, move slowly and avoid touching it by the tail, which can come off. Stay close to the ground or bed if the gecko acts frantically or tries to jump.
Following these steps will help your chahoua gecko become comfortable with you and make handling a stress-free experience for both you and your pet
Common health concerns
When taken care of properly, Chahoua geckos are usually healthy and rarely experience health problems.
Metabolic bone disease (MBD) can occur in Chahoua geckos if they don’t receive enough calcium. Symptoms of MBD include twitching limbs, unusual bumps on the gecko’s body, and a deformed tail. To prevent MBD, ensure that the gecko gets enough UVB light to synthesize vitamin D3 or provide vitamin D3 and calcium supplements.
Another common health issue for Chahoua geckos is parasites. Mites can infest the reptile’s eyes and appear as small red or black bugs. If you notice mites on your gecko, take it to an exotic veterinarian for treatment.
Chahoua geckos may also suffer from intestinal impaction if they swallow too much substrate. Symptoms of intestinal impaction include constipation and loss of appetite. If you notice these symptoms in your gecko, take it to the vet immediately for treatment.
Chahoua gecko breeding
Breeding chahoua geckos in captivity can be challenging, but with the right conditions and preparation, it can be done successfully. Female chahoua geckos reach maturity at two years of age, while males mature at around 18 months. Before they reach maturity, it’s best to keep them separate.
To mate, ensure that both the male and female geckos are well-fed and provided with an environment that mimics their natural habitat. During mating, the male chahoua gecko will bite the female’s neck while mounting her.
After 30-35 days of mating, the female chahoua gecko will lay her eggs. Chahoua geckos don’t typically bury their eggs but instead hide them in concealed places. When found, extract the eggs carefully and avoid changing their position, which can harm the embryo. Mark the top side of the egg with a pencil or pen to ensure the correct orientation.
Incubate the eggs at a temperature of 80°F, and keep the substrate hydrated. It can take anywhere from 70 to 200 days for the eggs to hatch. Once hatched, move the baby geckos to a small terrarium with damp paper towels on the bottom.
What to keep in mind when buying a Chahoua gecko
If you’re interested in buying a Chahoua Gecko, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, it’s important to note that these geckos are rare and expensive, often costing around $1,000. You can find them for sale online or at exotic pet exhibitions.
To ensure you get a healthy gecko, it’s best to buy from a reputable breeder. Take into account the age and appearance of the lizard when making your choice.
It’s recommended that you view the gecko in person before making a purchase, as some health issues may not be apparent in photos. Check the gecko for mites, deformities, clear eyes, and overall liveliness.
Conclusion
Caring for a chahoua gecko requires patience, dedication and understanding of their specific needs but with proper care these little reptiles can make wonderful pets! From setting up their habitat correctly and providing appropriate food sources to gentle handling techniques – following all of these tips will help ensure that your chahoua has a safe and happy home where they can thrive! Reptile enthusiasts everywhere should consider bringing a Chahoua Gecko into their homes – they won’t regret it!
FAQ
Are chahoua geckos good pets?
Yes. Chahoua geckos can make great pets for reptile enthusiasts! These hardy lizards are nocturnal and arboreal, meaning they are active at night and prefer to climb and hide in foliage during the day. Chahoua geckos are recognized by their large white lidless eyes and can come in a variety of colors, such as red or mossy green.
Are chahoua geckos aggressive?
No, chahoua geckos are generally not aggressive and tend to be fairly docile in temperament. However, like most reptiles, they may become defensive if they feel threatened or stressed. This can result in biting or tail dropping, which is a natural defense mechanism for many lizard species.
How big does a chahoua gecko get?
Chahoua geckos are considered medium-sized geckos and can grow up to 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) in length from nose to tail. Unlike many other gecko species, chahoua geckos have a robust body type with a relatively short tail compared to their overall length.
Can Chahoua geckos live together?
Chahoua geckos are generally solitary animals and do not require or particularly enjoy the company of other geckos. In fact, housing multiple chahoua geckos together can often lead to aggression, stress, and even injury.