The species is characterized by its distinctive dorsal scales, which are large, acute, strongly keeled, and imbricate, numbering 20–23 from axilla to groin.

[2] The species is named in honor of Doris Mable Cochran, a distinguished American herpetologist and curator at the National Museum of Natural History, recognizing her contributions to the study of Hispaniolan herpetofauna.

[3] Sphaerodactylus cochranae is exclusively found in the karstic Los Haitises region south of the Bahía de Samaná, thriving in mesic environments closely associated with bromeliads.

Its habitat is characterized by steep mogotes (karstic hilltops) that have remained largely undisturbed by human activity, which is crucial for the survival of this gecko.

[4][failed verification] Little is known about the natural history of S. cochranae, but it is believed to be a bromeliad dweller, exceedingly sensitive to changes in its habitat, particularly those caused by agricultural expansion.