Henkel’s Giant Gecko

Henkels Giant Gecko in the reptile house at Wingham Wildlife Park

Henkel’s Giant Gecko Natural History

Size

These geckos measure from 9 to 12 inches (22 to 30 cm) and weigh up to 250 grams.

Habitat and Distribution

They can be found in forests on the Isle of Pines in New Caledonia. Males prefer the lower branches of the forest and will defend their territory from other males while females prefer to be higher in the canopy.

Age

Henkel’s Giant Geckos can live for over 20 years in captivity.

Diet

These geckos will eat insects, small mammals, flowers and fruit.

Groups and Breeding

Females can lay 2-4 eggs multiple times each year. Eggs take around 70 days to hatch and the hatchlings are up to 3 ½ inches long.

Threats

This species is currently listed as Vulnerable to extinction on the IUCN.

Interesting Facts

They use a variety of whistles, chirps and growls to communicate with one another. These noises have led to them being known as the ‘devil in the trees’ by locals.

They can also be known by the their alternative name of New Caledonia Giant Gecko thanks to where they are found in the wild.

The Henkel’s Giant Gecko During Your Day Out in Kent

We have two of these geckos currently, a male and a female who are on display in the Reptile House. This area is home to a number of other popular reptiles and amphibians.