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The right enclosure
Gargoyle geckos are heavy-bodied arboreal geckos from New Caledonia. A single adult thrives in an 18"x18"x24" front-opening glass terrarium with plenty of vertical space and sturdy climbing surfaces.
Unlike crested geckos, gargoyles are stocky and prefer wide cork tubes and thick branches that can support their weight. Thin vines bend under them and are quickly ignored.
Temperature, humidity and UVB
Gargoyles do well at room temperature — aim for 72–78°F with a warm spot no higher than 82°F. A ceramic heat emitter on a thermostat is useful only if your room drops below 70°F.
Keep humidity between 50–70%, misting in the evening and letting the enclosure dry out during the day. Low-level arboreal UVB like the Arcadia ShadeDweller 2.4% supports natural D3 synthesis and a healthy day/night cycle.
Diet and feeding
A complete powdered gecko diet (CGD) such as Pangea or Repashy is the foundation — offer it fresh every 24–48 hours on a magnetic feeding ledge.
Once or twice a week, offer gut-loaded feeder insects dusted with calcium. Gargoyles have strong jaws and relish larger prey like dubia roaches and hornworms.
Handling and temperament
Gargoyles are generally calm but can be jumpy as juveniles. Support their whole body, move slowly, and let them walk hand-to-hand rather than gripping them.
They are known to drop and regrow their tails — provide sturdy perches and avoid grabbing the tail. With regular, gentle handling most gargoyles become confident, tractable adults.
Products Mentioned in This Guide
Pangea Fruit Mix Complete Gecko Diet
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food-feeders
Pangea Fruit Mix Complete Gecko Diet
Best for: A complete, no-fuss staple diet
$20–$28
Live Banded Crickets (Weekly Treat)
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food-feeders
Live Banded Crickets (Weekly Treat)
Best for: Weekly hunting enrichment
$12–$20
Exo Terra Glass Terrarium 18"x18"x24"
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terrariums-enclosures
Exo Terra Glass Terrarium 18"x18"x24"
Best for: One adult gargoyle gecko
$170–$220