Species Detail
Henkel's Leaf-tailed Gecko
GeckosSub-species of Mossy Leaf-tailed Gecko

Henkel's Leaf-tailed Gecko

Uroplatus henkeli

Habitat

Primary and secondary lowland rainforest of northern and eastern Madagascar; rests by day pressed flat against mossy tree trunks and large branches, descending to hunt insects at night.

Range

Northern and eastern Madagascar (Nosy Be, Sambirano region, and the Masoala area).

Adult Size

9–11 in / 23–28 cm (SVL ~10–14 cm, total length up to 28 cm)

Diet

Nocturnal insectivore and opportunist — crickets, moths, roaches, and other arboreal invertebrates.

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Conservation status:Vulnerable

About this species

A large, heavy-bodied Uroplatus with a broad, leaf-shaped head, prominent lidless eyes, and deeply fringed, bark-like skin along the body and tail. One of the largest leaf-tailed geckos; closely allied to the mossy leaf-tailed gecko (U. sikorae) and sometimes confused with the giant leaf-tail (U. fimbriatus), but distinguished by body proportions and the fleshy dermal flaps that break up its outline against bark. Nocturnal and arboreal, relying on extreme camouflage rather than flight.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Henkel's Leaf-tailed Gecko is arboreal — enrichment focuses on vertical climbing, elevated feeding, and humidity-driven activity.

  • Provide tall vertical cork bark, bamboo, and diagonals to encourage climbing, clinging, and patrolling.
  • Add broad-leafed live or silk foliage and vines for resting, camouflage, and jumping routes.
  • Offer food on elevated feeding ledges at different heights to spread foraging across the enclosure.
  • Mist in the evening to prompt drinking, raise humidity, and trigger natural hunting activity.
  • Tuck small insects among foliage so the gecko stalks through the canopy.
  • Periodically reposition branches and foliage to create novel climbing paths.

Housing & Social Behavior

Variable

Can be kept in pairs if space allows, but monitor for stress or aggression closely.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.

Reptifiles Husbandry Guides The Reptile Database IUCN SSC Reptile Specialist Group