Northern Spotted Velvet Gecko (Oedura coggeri)

Northern Spotted Velvet Gecko

Scientific Name: Oedura coggeri
Common Name: Northern Spotted Velvet Gecko, Cogger’s Velvet Gecko

Species Overview

Size: Adult Northern Spotted Velvet Geckos typically reach 5–6.5 inches (13–17 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are medium-sized, soft-skinned geckos with a velvety appearance and a robust build.

Appearance: Oedura coggeri is a beautifully patterned gecko featuring a deep brown or charcoal-grey base colour adorned with irregular pale yellow to white spots across the body and tail. The contrast between the dark background and the bright spotting gives this species its “spotted velvet” appearance. The tail is thick and slightly flattened, serving as a fat reserve. The skin texture is smooth and plush to the touch, reflecting light in a soft, satin-like way. The head is broad with large lidless eyes of golden or bronze tone, and the underside is pale cream.

Distribution: Found across northern Queensland, Australia, particularly in rocky escarpments, dry forests, and sandstone ranges.

Habitat: In the wild, Northern Spotted Velvet Geckos inhabit rocky outcrops, cliffs, and boulder fields, often hiding in crevices during the day. They are nocturnal hunters, emerging at night to hunt insects and small arthropods. In captivity, they thrive in semi-arid enclosures that replicate their rocky natural environment, with both horizontal and vertical climbing surfaces.

Behaviour: This species is nocturnal and primarily crevice-dwelling. It is generally calm when undisturbed but can be wary if handled. They are agile climbers that use both vertical rock faces and horizontal ledges, often retreating quickly to shelter when startled. Once acclimated, they are hardy, steady feeders that display natural behaviours well in captivity.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide a terrestrial-to-vertical enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 18 inches (45 × 45 × 45 cm) for a single adult. Use a rocky or desert-style setup with vertical slabs of slate or cork bark for climbing, and multiple crevices or caves for hiding. A sandy soil substrate or clay-sand mix helps replicate their natural habitat.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime temperature gradient of 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area near 90°F (32°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Keep humidity between 40–60%, with light misting in the evening to allow for drinking and shedding. Provide good ventilation to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

Lighting: Although nocturnal, Oedura coggeri benefits from low-level UVB lighting (2–5%) for calcium metabolism and to promote a healthy day-night rhythm. Provide a 12-hour light/dark cycle with shaded areas for retreat.

Diet: Offer a diet of gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, silkworms, and mealworms. Adults should be fed 3–4 times per week, while juveniles require smaller, more frequent feedings. Dust prey with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly to ensure proper nutrition.

Behaviour in Captivity: Northern Spotted Velvet Geckos are hardy and adaptable, making excellent display species. They exhibit calm, deliberate movements and are often visible shortly after dusk. With stable temperatures and proper shelter, they thrive and may live over 10 years in captivity.

Special Considerations: Avoid overly humid environments, as this species comes from relatively dry habitats. Ensure multiple hides at different temperature zones and use secure rockwork to prevent collapse. Handling should be minimal to reduce stress and risk of tail loss.

Taxonomy Note

The Northern Spotted Velvet Gecko (Oedura coggeri) belongs to the family Diplodactylidae and is one of several Oedura species endemic to Australia. The genus is commonly referred to as “velvet geckos” due to their soft, plush skin texture. O. coggeri is closely related to Oedura monilis (the Jewelled Velvet Gecko) but is distinguished by its smaller size and the arrangement of distinct pale spots rather than bands.

Genetics Note

There are currently no recognized morphs or selectively bred variants of Oedura coggeri. Natural variation occurs in the number, size, and brightness of the dorsal spots, often influenced by locality and environmental conditions. These differences are natural adaptations and not the result of selective breeding.