A headstarting programme for the Critically Endangered Manapany day gecko Phelsuma inexpectata on Réunion Island

The Manapany day gecko Phelsuma inexpectata has experienced drastic population declines over the past decade in its native range on Réunion Island. We detail the establishment of a headstarting programme aimed at improving juvenile survival. Between January 2021 and November 2022, 40 wild-caught hatchlings were raised in captivity until they reached adult size and then reintroduced into their original populations. Geckos were kept in outdoor exo-terrariums within a predator-proof facility. To ensure a consistent food supply for captive geckos, we set up captive breeding of the tropical house cricket, Gryllodes sigillatus. The geckos developed well in captivity and all 40 geckos reached adulthood. Our headstarting programme represents the first local captive management initiative for a Phelsuma gecko.