🦎 General Info


The Leachianus Gecko (Rhacodactylus leachianus), often called the New Caledonian Giant Gecko or simply “Leachie,” is the largest species of gecko in the world. Native to New Caledonia, these incredible reptiles can reach 14–17 inches in total length, with some mainland localities exceeding 400 grams in weight.


Leachianus Geckos are arboreal, nocturnal, and known for their thick, muscular build, bark-like skin pattern, and distinctive vocalizations—they growl, bark, and even hiss to communicate. They are intelligent and can become quite tame with consistent, calm handling.


They are prized among reptile enthusiasts for their unique appearance, personality, and locality variations, which differ in size, color, and pattern. With proper care, Leachies can live 20–25 years or more in captivity.


Enclosure


  • Size: Leachies require vertical enclosures that provide both climbing and hiding space.

  • Juveniles: Minimum 12" x 12" x 18"

  • Adults: Minimum 24" x 18" x 36" (larger is always better)

  • Pairs: Only house together for breeding — they can be territorial and aggressive.

  • Material:

  • PVC or glass terrariums with good ventilation work best.

  • PVC retains humidity and heat well while being lightweight.

  • Avoid wire enclosures or screen cages for permanent housing.

  • Décor: Provide cork rounds, hollow logs, vines, and branches for climbing and hiding, use vertical structures and dense foliage (live or artificial) for security, Include multiple hides—Leachies prefer snug, enclosed spaces to feel safe.

  • Tip: Leachies are solitary and can be territorial, especially adults. Never cohabitate two adults unless they are a proven compatible pair.


Temperature & Lighting


  • Basking Spot: 82–85°F


  • Ambient Temperature (Day): 75–80°F


  • Night Temperature: 68–72°F


  • Heating:

  • In most homes, Leachies do not require supplemental heating unless your ambient temperatures drop below 70°F regularly.

  • If heat is needed, use a low-wattage heat bulb or heat mat regulated by a thermostat.

  • Lighting: Being nocturnal, Leachies do not require intense UVB, but low-level UVB (2–5%) can be beneficial for overall health and natural behavior. Replace bulbs every 6–12 months, depending on brand and manufacturer guidelines.

  • Light cycle: Use a 12-hour light/dark cycle to mimic natural day/night rhythm.

  • Avoid: High heat or direct basking lights — Leachies are sensitive to overheating and prefer cooler, shaded environments.


Humidity & Water


  • Humidity: 60–80% Leachies come from humid forest habitats and need moisture for hydration and healthy shedding.


  • Methods to Maintain Humidity:

  • Mist the enclosure once or twice daily, preferably in the evening.

  • Include moist hides filled with damp sphagnum moss.

  • Live plants (like pothos, bromeliads, or philodendron) help maintain ambient humidity.

  • Ventilation: Proper airflow is critical — constant dampness without ventilation can cause mold or respiratory issues.


  • Water: Always provide a shallow water dish with clean, fresh water, leachies often drink droplets from misted surfaces, so misting is crucial. manually spray the enclosure several times a day or use a automated misting system.

Substrate


  • Options:

  • Coconut fiber - Eco Earth

  • Cypress mulch

  • Bioactive substrate (mix of soil, sand, bark, and leaf litter) for natural setups

  • Depth: 2–3 inches minimum for moisture retention.


  • Maintenance: Spot-clean daily and replace or refresh substrate as needed. If bioactive, maintain a cleanup crew of isopods and springtails.


Diet


  • Type: Omnivorous — Leachies eat a mix of fruit-based diets and occasional insects.


  • Staple Food:

  • Commercial Gecko Diets (like Repashy, Pangea, or Zoo Med): formulated for crested and Leachianus geckos; feed 3–4 times per week.

  • Insects: Offer dubia roaches, crickets, silkworms, or small locusts once or twice per week.

  • Always gut-load insects and dust with calcium without D3 at each feeding and with D3 once weekly.

  • Treats: Soft fruits like mango, banana, papaya, and fig can be offered occasionally (avoid citrus).

  • Feeding Schedule:

  • Juveniles: Feed every other day.

  • Adults: Feed 3–4 times per week.

  • Tip: Leachies tend to eat less during the cooler months; slight seasonal appetite changes are normal.


Behavior & Handling


  • Temperament: Leachianus Geckos are territorial, intelligent, and can be defensive, especially when young. They may bark, growl, or bite if startled but usually calm down with consistent, gentle handling.


  • Handling:

  • Allow your Leachie to acclimate to your presence before handling.

  • Support their body fully with both hands; avoid restraining their tail.

  • Handle for short sessions a few times per week.

  • Over time, many Leachies become quite docile and curious.

  • Enrichment:

  • Provide climbing opportunities, naturalistic décor, and hiding spots.

  • Rearrange enclosure décor occasionally to stimulate exploration.

  • Offer occasional supervised out-of-cage exploration in a safe area.

  • Caution: Avoid pairing adults unless breeding — Leachies can seriously injure each other if incompatible. You may have to try multiple pairs to find a compatible pair that will get along being housed together.


Health & Lifespan


  • Lifespan: 20–25 years or more with proper care.


  • Common Health Issues:

  • Shedding Problems: Caused by low humidity. Provide a humid hide.

  • Dehydration: Ensure regular misting and access to fresh water.

  • Obesity: Overfeeding or too many insects can lead to weight gain.

  • Mouth Rot or Respiratory Infections: From poor enclosure hygiene or too much humidity without ventilation.

  • Prevention:

  • Maintain proper humidity and ventilation.

  • Feed a balanced diet with supplements.

  • Keep enclosure clean and disinfect as needed.

  • Consult a qualified reptile veterinarian promptly if you ever suspect your pet may be ill.

  • Signs of Illness:

  • Lethargy

  • Refusal to eat

  • Weight loss

  • Wheezing or clicking noises

  • Retained shed

Final Note: The Leachianus Gecko is a truly unique reptile—impressive in size, intelligence, and personality. With the right environment, humidity, and patience, these gentle giants can become remarkably calm, interactive pets that thrive for decades.

Their ancient appearance, deep vocalizations, and striking natural patterns make them one of the most fascinating geckos in the reptile world. Leachies reward dedicated keepers with years of companionship and are often considered a “crown jewel” species for experienced reptile enthusiasts.