Description:

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With the scientific name of Correlophus ciliatus, the crested gecko, is a unique and extremely popular lizard in the pet trade. Though currently being extensively bred in captivity, these animals are a relatively new introduction in the trade as they were thought to be extinct until being rediscovered in 1994 within their native home of New Caledonia.

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Crested geckos are most easily identified by the scaly protrusions above their eyes which resemble eyelashes. Another characteristic of the crested gecko is their large and vividly detailed eyes with the noticeable lack of eyelids. The crested gecko accounts for this lack of eye lids by use of their abnormally long tongue, which they will regularly use to moisten and clean the surface of their eyes.

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Crested geckos are an arboreal species which possess amazing climbing and leaping abilities. Their specialized feet and claws allow them to climb and easily cling to almost all solid surfaces.

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As with many geckos, they have the ability to drop their tails when threatened or snagged by a predator. However, the crested gecko does not posses the ability to regenerate this appendage like some lizards do. This does not present a problem for them though, as they seem to adapt to life without a tail quite easily. It is common to see these animals in captivity and even more so in the wild living happily without a tail.

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Through selective breeding, Crested geckos are available in a variety of different colors and skin patterns.

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Size:

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The average full grown length of a crested gecko is 8 inches (20.3 centimeters), with some attaining an ever larger size over the course of their lives. This measurement is also dependent on their tails, with specimens having lost them being considerably shorter in length.

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Temperament:

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Crested geckos typically are quite docile, and will accept gentle handling if shown the  consideration and respect they deserve. They are however known to be flighty and can show a sudden and unexpected burst of speed when they feel threatened. This coupled with their tendency to jump means that caution should be shown when handling them. A fall or miscalculated jump could easily result in an injury to your gecko.

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Also remember never to grab your crested gecko by the tail, or it will likely instinctively detach it.

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Crested geckos are not usually quick to bite, but if continually harassed they may choose to do so. These bites however are generally not strong enough to cause much pain or damage to the skin.

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Overall, crested geckos are peaceful animals whom do not posses much in the way of defense towards predators. They would prefer to be left alone and admired from afar whenever possible.

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Crested geckos can be kept communally, however males are territorial, and should always be housed separately. Also bear in mind that crested geckos are energetic breeders and housing a male and female together will quickly and indefinitely result in more crested geckos. The eggs from a crested gecko also do not require specialized incubation - as such you may not even notice these eggs before they have hatched.

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Housing:

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A 20 gallon terrarium is the minimum size needed for housing an adult crested gecko, with something larger being ideal. Crested geckos are very active during the evenings, and love to climb and explore the space within their enclosure. Because of this, they will be much happier and healthier when kept in a terrarium with more vertical space than floor space. A tall Exo-terra is a great choice for these animals - allowing easy access and making a great display piece.

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If you intend to provide it with the best quality of life possible, you should provide your crested gecko with multiple hiding spots and various objects to climb on, such as branches, corkwood and vines.

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Crested geckos are a great candidate for bio-active terrariums, and will most definitely benefit from an environment that is as naturalistic as possible.

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Temperature and Humidity:

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Being ectothermic, all reptiles require an external source of heat for their survival. The best way to provide heat for a crested gecko is through the use of  low powered heat bulb, or a ceramic heat emitter placed above the screen top of their enclosure. If not providing your crested gecko with multiple shaded areas, it is important that  you keep this heat source to one side of their enclosure so that your gecko has access to cooler areas in order to regulate its body temperature. Use of heat mats placed on the side of their enclosure can also be incorporated or used in lieu of a heat lamp in this set up.

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Crested geckos thrive at a temperature of 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (slightly higher than average room temperature) during daytime hours, with a drop to the low 70s during night time being acceptable. The use of a digital thermometer is important for monitoring and maintaining this temperature. Failure to improperly provide and regulate heat for any reptile can be fatal.

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Crested geckos are best kept in a humidity level of 50-80%. This is most easily attained by regular misting, the addition of a water dish, and occasionally dampening their substrate. Use of a hygrometer in addition to a thermometer is advised for keeping an close eye on the humidity level within their enclosure.

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Lighting:

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as they are nocturnal, no special UV lighting is required for these animals unless housing in a planted vivarium. A 12 hour light and dark cycle is necessary though for their well-being and to mimic the light cycle of their natural environment.

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Substrate:

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As stated before, a live planted (bio-active) setup is a great option for these animals, but regardless of what option you choose, crested geckos are arboreal animals and as such, will not spend much time on the ground of their enclosures.

 

If going with a non-bioactive setup, coconut fiber or repti-carpet are always a cheap low maintenance option, that with regular spot cleaning should only need to be cleaned or replaced once per month.

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Diet:

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Repashy brand crested gecko food is generally the easiest, least expensive and most readily available diet for crested geckos. This should technically provide your crested gecko with a complete diet on which it can fully sustain itself. Repashy comes in a powered form, which when mixed with water produces a thick paste.  This can be fed to your gecko a few times per week, or as is instructed on the packaging.

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For a variety in their diet, mashed fruits and small, vitamin dusted feeder insects can also be offered.

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Lifespan:

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A well cared for Crested gecko will live an average life span of 15-20 years. Making ownership of one a long term commitment.

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