Gargoyle geckos, scientifically known as Rhacodactylus auriculatus, are a small species of gecko native to New Caledonia. They are a popular pet reptile due to their unique appearance, manageable size, and relatively simple care requirements. Determining the sex of gargoyle geckos is important for breeding purposes and can also impact some aspects of their housing and care.
Breeding – Male and female pairs are needed for breeding gargoyle geckos. Identifying their sex is vital for producing offspring.
Housing – Males tend to be territorial and aggressive toward one another. Males and females may need to be housed separately once they reach maturity.
Behavioral differences – Male and female gargoyles exhibit some differing behaviors especially during breeding season. Being aware of these differences allows owners to better care for their gecko.
Key Takeaways
Determine gargoyle gecko gender for breeding, housing, and behavior insights.
Mature males are larger, have hemipenal bulges, and prominent leg pores.
Behavior differences include male aggression and territory marking.
Vent probing, ultrasound, or DNA tests offer definitive sexing methods.
Housing, feeding, and health monitoring may vary by gender.
Males tend to be slightly larger and bulkier than females with more distinct muscular shoulders.
Mature males may weigh 35-45 grams while females are typically 25-35 grams.
Bulges near the Base of the Tail
Hemipenal bulges at the base of the tail are present in mature males but absent in females. They house the hemipenes, or sex organs.
The bulges may be easier to see when gently applying pressure near the sides of the tail base.
Pores near the Vent
Males possess prominent femoral pores near the vent which are used to release pheromones.
These pores are small slits that form vertical rows underneath the thighs. They are not present in females.
Behavioral Differences Between Males and Females
Observing gargoyle gecko behaviors can also provide clues as to their sex once they reach maturity.
Aggression
Mature males tend to be much more aggressive, especially toward other males when competing for mates.
Females are generally more timid and docile by comparison.
Marking Territory
Males will mark territory frequently with drops of fluid from the femoral pores.
Females lack this behavior and do not mark environmental objects.
Nesting Behaviors
Gravid female gargoyles exhibit nesting behaviors such as digging and becoming reclusive prior to egg-laying.
Males do not display these pre-ovipositional behaviors.
Methods for Sexing Gargoyle Geckos
While visual and behavioral clues work for many owners, there are also a few direct methods to determine sex with certainty.
Manual Eversion of Hemipenes
Gently press near the tail bulge to evert the male hemipenes which are two spur-like sex organs.
Only males possess these organs. Females will lack any everted tissue.
Probing
A thin, lubricated probe can be gently inserted into the vent to feel for the presence of hemipenes.
This should only be done by an experienced reptile veterinarian.
Ultrasound
An experienced vet may also use ultrasound to look for male hemipenes or developing eggs in females.
This is the least invasive and most accurate option, but does require a vet visit.
DNA Testing
Commercial dna sexing kits only require a simple tail tip clipping.
Results are highly accurate but this is one of the more expensive options.
When to Determine Sex
Owners should consider determining the sex of gargoyles at two key points:
Buying Young Geckos
Confirm the gender of any gargoyle gecko before purchase, especially if buying multiple animals.
Breeding Adult Geckos
Check sex of breeders well before attempting to breed gargoyles and isolate pairs.
Impact of Gender on Care
While basic care is similar, gender can impact some husbandry factors:
Habitat Setup
Male gargoyle geckos may need to be housed separately from other males.
Breeding pairs should have ample space and egg-laying sites.
Feeding
Females tend to require more food, especially when gravid or breeding.
Males often eat less during peak breeding seasons.
Health Monitoring
Look for signs of aggression and injury in males, particularly before breeding season.
Monitor female body condition and look for signs of eggs binding.
FAQs
Q: At what age can you accurately sex a gargoyle gecko?
A: Gargoyle geckos cannot be accurately sexed until they reach maturity around 18-24 months old. Adult sexual characteristics are needed to distinguish males from females.
Q: Can you tell if a gargoyle gecko is male or female by their color?
A: Color is not a reliable indicator of sex in gargoyle geckos. Both males and females exhibit variations in color and patterning.
Q: Is it better to have a male or female gargoyle gecko as a pet?
A: Both male and female gargoyle geckos can make good pets. Females tend to be slightly smaller and less aggressive. But personality also varies among individuals of both sexes.
Q: How often should breeding female gargoyle geckos produce eggs?
A: Healthy female gargoyle geckos can produce 2-4 clutches of 2 eggs each during the breeding season. Breeding is generally recommended only once per year.
Q: Do male gargoyle geckos cohabitate peacefully together?
A: No, mature males will be aggressive toward one another, especially when competing for access to female geckos. They should be housed separately.
