However, based on recent molecular data, no populations of R. leachianus are granted subspecies status at the present time.
R. leachianus of the Grande Terre localities are capable of growing 14–17 inches (360–430 mm) long, with a weight range between 250 and 500 grams.
It is variable in color, coming in shades of mottled green, gray, and brown, sometimes with highlights of white, orange, and/or pink.
[6] R. Leachianus often show locality-specific phenotypical coloration, size, and morphological differences called morphotypes.
Early on, a typing system was created in attempt to group phenotypical traits seen on Grande Terre together.
However, this typing system is no longer considered an accurate means of locale identification, but is still commonly used for generalization within the pet trade.
Type B R. leachianus were those that displayed lateral patterning in the form of linear blotches, or solid-colored vertical bars, commonly paired with a dark base coloration.
Type C R. leachianus were those that are slow growing, large geckos, commonly paired with light blotching and a dark base color.
[6][9] R. leachianus found in the Yate region are recognized as one of the largest localities, being heavy bodied, bulky animals.
Mount Khogis R. leachianus display base colorations that range from jet black to olive green.
These individuals may possess enlarged scales that run the length of the snout ridges, which can be used as a differentiating factor for this locale.
Goro R. leachianus are dark in coloration, with accompanying white blotches that run vertically in rows along the lateral sides.
[9] R. leachianus found on the island Bayonnaise are characterized by a yellow-green base color, often displaying banding that covers the laterals and dorsal.
Base coloration may range from deep greens to bright yellows, commonly accompanied by white or pink blotching.
Duu Ana R. leachianus often display morphological traits, such as larger legs in comparison to other insular localities.
The patterning on Caanawa R. leachianus often display deep purple blotching or barring, with a significant amount of black peppering.
[9] R. leachianus found on the Isle of Pines are the largest of the Insular localities, reaching up to 12 inches in length and surpassing 300 grams.
[9] R. leachianus is an arboreal species; it is primarily nocturnal and remains hidden in tree hollows during the day.
This is due to adhesive pads on their feet called lamellae, which are made up of tiny hairs which increase friction force when applied to surfaces.
[6] Popular lore within the enthusiast lay community has promoted the notion that R. leachianus may pair monogamously in the wild and may remain compatible and establish a pair-bond, which may last for a single breeding season or persist for several years.
Reports from the expeditions of herpetoculturalists philippe De Vosjoli, Frank Fast, and Bill Love, provide multiple accounts of monogamous pair bonding activity, as investigated tree hollows often housed a single pair of leachianus that remained for several weeks.
The popular notion is that these behaviors may serve to test for pair compatibility and physical capability of a mate.
[6] Adult females of R. leachianus usually lay two eggs at a time (universal trait for all geckos), having up to 10 clutches per year.
[6][11] Older females in captivity may not lay clutches in a breeding season, even when paired with a compatible male.
There have been reports of parthenogenesis in unpaired females in captivity, with some parthenogenic offspring reaching maturity with no apparent defects.
[11] This growling vocalization is speculated to be a warning call is often made in the presence of a predator or a rivaling R. leachianus.
Bird-like chirping is seen in the larger mainland localities, which incorporates a heightened stance and a gaping mouth for a threat display, often followed by a lunging motion.
[6] Many lizards exhibit an ability to alter the hue and/or intensity of skin color (chameleons are the extreme example), and New Caledonian Geckos are no exception.