Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

Are you thinking about adding a gecko to your collection? The Leachianus Gecko, also known as the Leachie Gecko, is one of the most fascinating and awe-inspiring species you could choose. Known for its large size, distinctive appearance, and unique care needs, the Leachianus Gecko is a showstopper. In this pet care article, we’ll explore what makes the Leachianus Gecko such an interesting yet challenging pet, and provide expert tips on how to properly care for this remarkable reptile. Let’s dive into why it’s such a standout choice for reptile enthusiasts:

Ease of Handling: 2/5

When it comes to handling, the Leachianus Gecko is a bit of a mixed bag. Some individuals are fantastic to handle—gentle, calm, and easygoing—but others can be downright temperamental. It’s almost like rolling the dice with these geckos: some are affectionate and relaxed, while others can become aggressive and defensive. This variability in temperament is a significant reason why the Leachianus Gecko receives a low score for ease of handling.

For the geckos that do enjoy handling, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. But for those that are grumpy, they’ll likely try to bite your hand off. These geckos have powerful jaws and strong limbs, and if they don’t want to be held, they can make that known quickly. Their bite is powerful, and their grip can be surprisingly strong for such a small creature. For anyone new to reptiles or looking for a gecko that enjoys being handled, the Leachianus Gecko can be a challenge.

Additionally, while these geckos don’t have a tendency to drop their tails like other species, they are still somewhat delicate when it comes to physical interactions. If they feel threatened or uncomfortable, they might try to escape or become defensive. It’s important to approach these geckos with patience and respect, ensuring that they feel secure before attempting to handle them.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

Leachianus Geckos are not particularly difficult to care for, but their daily care requirements are more intensive than some other geckos, such as the Crested Gecko. These geckos thrive in a carefully regulated environment with high humidity, making it necessary to mist their enclosure twice a day—morning and evening. The misting should not make the enclosure excessively wet, but instead provide enough moisture for the gecko to drink from the droplets. The humidity should ideally range between 60% and 80%, depending on the time of year and their shedding cycles.

One of the best parts about caring for a Leachianus Gecko is their diet. They eat a powdered diet very similar to the Crested Gecko Diet (CGD). This diet is easy to store and prepare, making feeding time simple and hassle-free. Mix the powdered food with water every other day, and they’ll be good to go. Some Leachianus Geckos may eat insects like crickets or dubia roaches, but others may not show much interest in them.

However, even though the food is easy to obtain and prepare, the daily misting and attention to humidity can be a hassle for some. They need a bit more attention than other geckos, but if you’re up for it, their care is manageable.

Health and Durability: 4/5

Leachianus Geckos are one of the hardier gecko species out there. Their larger size and more robust nature make them less fragile than smaller species like Crested Geckos or Gargoyle Geckos. While they are still delicate creatures, they can tolerate more handling and slight mistakes in care without suffering major consequences. They are more durable than you might think, and if you provide them with the proper care, they can thrive for many years.

However, it’s essential to remember that Leachianus Geckos are still very sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They do best in a range of 72-78°F, with occasional slightly warmer areas during the day. Overheating can be a significant concern, as it can quickly lead to dehydration or other health issues. Unlike some gecko species that are more tolerant of high temperatures, Leachianus Geckos require careful temperature monitoring.

They are also prone to stress if their environment is too hot or humid, or if they aren’t provided with sufficient hiding spots. As long as you stick to a stable and comfortable environment, your Leachianus Gecko will likely thrive and live a long, healthy life.

Availability: 2/5

Leachianus Geckos are not as easy to come by as other species, and that’s reflected in both their availability and their cost. These geckos are difficult to breed in captivity. They require specific conditions, and even when they are bred, they lay only a few eggs at a time, making them less common than other gecko species. Additionally, because they are so rare, they often come at a premium price, and many breeders may not have a large enough supply to meet the demand.

The fact that Leachianus Geckos can be difficult to breed and don’t produce many eggs means that even when they are available, they can be harder to find at your local pet store or through breeders. This can lead to long wait times and a more limited selection. Furthermore, they are highly sought after, so when they do become available, they often sell quickly.

Initial Cost: 3/5

The Leachianus Gecko’s initial cost is one of the highest among pet geckos. While the gecko itself can be pricey—often ranging from $300 to $500 or more depending on age and morph—this is only part of the cost. Their enclosure setup will also need to be more expansive compared to other geckos. You’ll need a larger, vertically oriented terrarium, as well as a misting system, proper substrates for humidity control, and a heat source for the enclosure. These added costs can easily add another $150 to $300 to your total upfront investment.

While it’s true that Leachianus Geckos don’t require a ton of specialized equipment (they don’t need UVB lighting and can do fine in room temperature), the overall cost of both the gecko and the setup is still relatively high, making them a more significant financial investment than some other geckos like Crested Geckos or Leopard Geckos.

Final Thoughts: 3.0/5

The Leachianus Gecko is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating geckos you can own, but it’s not for everyone. Their handling can be tricky, as not all individuals are comfortable with human interaction, and their care requirements are slightly more demanding than some other species. However, their impressive size, beautiful appearance, and unique behavior make them a desirable pet for those who are willing to put in the time and effort.

If you’re an experienced gecko keeper who’s looking for a challenge, the Leachianus Gecko might be the perfect next step for you. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner or someone who’s not prepared to handle their care needs, this gecko might be a bit too much.

Ultimately, Leachianus Geckos are rewarding pets for those who are ready for them. If you can find one, afford one, and give it the proper care, you’ll have an amazing reptile companion for years to come. Have you ever kept a Leachianus Gecko or are you planning to? Share your experiences and pet care tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Be sure to check out more of our pet reviews and expert tips on reptile care! 🦎