90% of Reptile Species Unprotected as Gecko Trafficking Surges

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Social media is driving rare New Caledonian geckos toward extinction, with collectors paying up to €3,000 per breeding pair.

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These aren't ordinary lizards - Rhacodactylus leachianus grows to 17 inches long, making it Earth's largest gecko species.

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New Caledonia, a biodiversity hotspot in the South Pacific, hosts extraordinarily diverse reptile species found nowhere else on Earth.

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The problem? "More than 90% of reptile species lack CITES protection," says reptile specialist Dr. Mark Auliya.

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Poachers conduct nighttime raids in Blue River Provincial Park, using headlamps to locate geckos by their eyeshine.

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Why are these geckos so vulnerable? Females lay only 1-2 eggs per clutch and require 12 months to reach sexual maturity.

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Climate change poses another threat - the sex of gecko hatchlings is determined by incubation temperature between 60-80°F.

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Nickel mining has reduced original forest cover to just 5% on Grande Terre, fragmenting remaining gecko habitat.

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Invasive fire ants attack geckos in large numbers while competing for their food sources.

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Wildlife forensics using eDNA analysis can now trace seized geckos to their specific locality origins, aiding prosecution efforts.

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For pet owners, supporting ethical captive breeding reduces wild collection pressure - but proper housing requires specific conditions.

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Through genetics-informed conservation and community involvement, we can save these evolutionary marvels from extinction.

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