Crested Gecko

Overview

Crested geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles because of the manageable size, unique appearance, and relatively simple care requirements. Native to New Caledonia, these tree dwelling geckos are known for the soft crests above their eyes, sticky toe pads, and expressive personalities. 

Life Span

The average life span of a crested gecko 15-20 years with the proper care. The oldest crested gecko on record is from the San Diego Zoo, and her name was Tiger. She lived to be 27 years and 4 months old!

Size & Growth

Most crested geckos reach adult size around 12-18 months, though they may take up to two years to reach full grown size.

Hatchlings (0-6 months) - 3-4 inches 

Juveniles (6 months - 1 year) - 5-7 inches

Adult (1 year - 2 year) - 7-10 inches

Enclosure Size

Note: These are arboreal, which means enclosures must be taller than they are wide.

Hatchlings - minimum of 12 inches x 12 inches x 18 inches

Juvenile - minimum of 18 inches x 18 inches x 24 inches

Adult - minimum of 18 inches x 18 inches x 36 inches, larger is encouraged.

Crested geckos LOVE climbing, and spend very little time on the floor of the enclosure. That means your crested gecko's home should be tall, and should have lots of space for climbing with plenty of branches, plants, and hides for them to feel more safe in their home. The use of a feeding ledge will promote climbing which is enrichment and excersize for your little gecko.

Temperature & Lighting 

Temperature and lighting are two of the most important parts of caring for your crested gecko. These geckos do not tolerate extreme warm or cold. 

Day temperature - 72-78 F (22 - 26 C)

Night temperature - 65-72 (18 - 22 C)

UVB - low output UVB is optional, but beneficial and promotes healthy bone growth.

NOTE: Avoid temperatures above 80 F for extended periods.

Humidity

Ideal range - 60 - 80%

It's best to allow humidity to rise up to 80% during misting, and gradually fall to 60 or upper 50's. Misting should occur once or twice a day depending on the climate of the room the enclosure is in.

Diet & Feeding

Crested geckos are omnivores which means they can eat both insects and greens. 

Primarily a crested gecko will eat a powdered food you mix with water into a slurry for them to lick up with their tongue. Some occasional enrichment and protein options are Dubia roaches, crickets, black soldier fly ants, and silkworms. As a rare treat you can offer your crested gecko banana, mango, papaya, peach, and figs, though they should remain a small part of their diet. Crested geckos do not need fruit in their diet, and they do not benefit from it, other than the pleasure of having some sweet fruit. 

Hydration

Crested Geckos will need to be misted regularly, and like drinking water droplets from leaves and glass.

Handling & Behavior

Crested geckos can be pretty jumpy, especially when they're young. They are mostly active during the evening and night, and are excellent jumpers and climbers, so be sure to careful handling. Crested geckos can drop their tail, and unlike the leopard gecko, a crested gecko generally will not grow its tail back if they drop it.

Common Health Issues

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) - Caused by improper calcium intake or lighting.

Dehydration - Usually a result of low humidity.

Respiratory Infection - Often linked to poor ventilation, and excessive moisture.

Parasites - Can be brought in from a dirty batch of soil, or infected feeders. Just make sure to buy from trusted sources.

Stuck shed - Often around the toes, tail, and crest area, and can be mended by increasing tank humidity. 

Substrate Recommendations

 Paper towels are recommended for young, crested geckos, and in quarantine tanks. Once they're a juvenile they can switch to actual substrate. You can use coconut fiber, reptile safe tropical soil blends, or other bioactive substrates. Be sure to avoid cedar, pine, and any dusty bedding. 

Key Takeaway

Crested geckos are hardy reptiles when kept in the right conditions. Most health problems are preventable through proper husbandry and a good routine. They make excellent beginner reptiles, and rewarding long-term companions.