Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a gecko that combines beauty, ease of care, and a dash of unique charm, the Chahoua Gecko (affectionately called the “Chewie”) might just be the perfect pet for you. These striking lizards hail from New Caledonia and are often celebrated as the “Ferrari” of geckos for their incredible qualities. But are they the right gecko for your home? Let’s dive into their strengths and quirks by breaking things down into our categories:

Ease of Handling: 4/5

Unlike many other geckos, which are prone to sudden jumps or bursts of activity, Chahoua Geckos move slowly and deliberately, much like a chameleon. Their calm demeanor makes them one of the easiest geckos to handle, even for beginners.

Although they can jump if startled, they’re less inclined to leap compared to their New Caledonian relatives, such as crested geckos. This slow and cautious movement helps them feel secure in your hands. Their prehensile tails, complete with gripping pads, also provide an added sense of stability when they’re exploring your fingers.

One thing to be mindful of is their fragility. While they are hardy for their size, they’re still small animals that require gentle handling to avoid injury. And yes, their tails can drop if they feel threatened, but unlike crested geckos, their tails regenerate—a unique feature among New Caledonian geckos.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

Like their New Caledonian cousins, Chahoua Geckos thrive on a powder-based diet, commonly known as Crested Gecko Diet (CGD). Simply mix the powder with water, and voilà—dinner is served! They also enjoy insects occasionally, but bugs are more of a treat than a necessity, making their feeding routine incredibly convenient.

Daily misting is essential to maintain proper humidity levels in their enclosure and to ensure they stay hydrated. However, be careful not to oversaturate the enclosure, as excess moisture can lead to respiratory issues. Providing a bioactive setup with live plants, naturalistic décor, and proper substrate can make their enclosure both functional and visually stunning.

These geckos thrive at room temperature, so most households won’t require additional heating. However, extremes in temperature—especially excessive heat—can be dangerous. A thermometer and hygrometer are essential tools for monitoring their environment.

Health and Durability: 3/5

While Chahoua Geckos are generally hardy reptiles, they are not without their vulnerabilities. Heat stress is their biggest enemy, as excessive temperatures can quickly become fatal. Careful monitoring of the enclosure’s temperature and humidity is crucial to keep them healthy.

Dehydration is another concern, so their misting schedule should not be neglected. Conversely, too much humidity can create a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to respiratory infections. Striking the right balance is key.

The good news is that most Chahoua Geckos available in the pet trade are captive-bred, which significantly reduces the risk of health issues compared to wild-caught specimens. With proper care and a stable environment, they can live up to 15 years or more, making them a long-term companion.

Availability: 2/5

Chahoua Geckos are considered rare gems in the reptile world. You’re unlikely to find them at your local pet store, and even reptile expos might have only a handful available.

Breeders are your best bet if you’re serious about owning a Chewie. However, be prepared to join a waiting list, as demand often outpaces supply. Building a relationship with a reputable breeder can improve your chances of finding a healthy and well-cared-for gecko.

Their rarity only adds to their allure, but it also means they’re not the most accessible option for every reptile enthusiast.

Initial Cost: 3/5

When looking for a Chahoua Gecko, please expect to pay a premium—often several hundred to over a thousand dollars—just to bring one home. Their price tag reflects their rarity and desirability, placing them in the same league as the iconic Leachianus Gecko.

On the bright side, their housing and care requirements are relatively standard. A vertically oriented enclosure with climbing branches, live plants, and a proper substrate will work beautifully. If you already keep crested geckos or gargoyle geckos, much of the setup and equipment can be reused, saving you money.

Additionally, their powder-based diet is cost-effective, and their feeding routine doesn’t require a constant supply of live insects, which helps offset some of the upfront expense.

Final Thoughts: 3.2/5

Chahoua Geckos are stunning, with mossy coloration that makes them look like living art. They’re calm, easy to handle, and enjoy a diet that’s as simple as it gets.

However, their rarity, sensitivity to environmental conditions, and hefty price tag may make them a better fit for experienced keepers or those willing to invest significant time and resources into their care.

If you’re captivated by the beauty and charm of the Chahoua Gecko and have the means to provide them with the proper care, they are absolutely worth considering. These are geckos for true enthusiasts—rare, exquisite, and endlessly fascinating.

We hope this review helps you decide if the Chahoua Gecko is the perfect addition to your collection. Let us know in the comments—would you add this “Ferrari of geckos” to your home? 🦎