Reptoria

Reeves' gecko (Gekko reevesii)

Reeves' gecko (Gekko reevesii), typical appearance of the species

Geckos · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Reeves' gecko (Gekko reevesii) (origin: Southern China and Vietnam). Adult size around 20–30 cm. Life expectancy 10–15 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Reeves' gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?

60×45×80 cm for a pair — these species climb.

Reeves' gecko: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 26–31 °C, basking spot Warm place up to 32 °C, at night 22–24 °C.

Reeves' gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Not essential (nocturnal), but weak UVB is still beneficial.

Reeves' gecko: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 10–15 years.

Reeves' gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
26–31 °C
Night temperature
22–24 °C
Basking spot
Warm place up to 32 °C
Humidity
65–80 %
UVB
Not essential (nocturnal), but weak UVB is still beneficial

Enclosure

Minimum size
60×45×80 cm for a pair — these species climb
Substrate
Forest-floor substrate, plus sturdy cork trunks and pieces of bark set vertically

Feeding

Food
Robust insects such as roaches, locusts and crickets, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 2–3×/week

Key facts

Adult size
20–30 cm
Life expectancy
10–15 years
Origin
Southern China and Vietnam
Protection status
Not listed under CITES
Brumation
No winter rest; somewhat cooler in winter
Cohabitation
Keeping it singly is least stressful and safest for this large gecko that bites. A pair (1.1) only with animals of equal size in a considerably larger enclosure; drawback: bite injuries are possible, and hatchlings must be removed at once because tokays eat smaller animals. Never keep two males together.

Notes

Formerly treated as a subspecies of the tokay. Quieter and a little smaller.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Reeves' gecko (Gekko reevesii) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (60×45×80 cm for a pair — these species climb), substrate (Forest-floor substrate, plus sturdy cork trunks and pieces of bark set vertically), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

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Last updated: 2 November 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gekko_reevesii, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokay_gecko, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Gekko&species=reevesii, https://zenodo.org/records/6188398, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/223087289_Phylogeny_taxonomy_and_zoogeography_of_the_genus_Gekko_Laurenti_1768_with_the_revalidation_of_G_reevesii_Gray_1831_Sauria_Gekkonidae

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).