The Ultimate Guide to Crested Gecko Care

What is a Crested Gecko?

A Crested Gecko, also known as a New Caledonian Gecko or Eyelash Gecko, is a small to medium-sized lizard native to New Caledonia. It is a popular pet reptile due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. Crested Geckos have a distinctive crest of skin along their back, which gives them their name. They are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. These geckos are known for their ability to climb smooth surfaces and their remarkable ability to regenerate their tail if it is lost. Crested Geckos are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years in captivity.

Natural Habitat

Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia, an island located in the South Pacific. They inhabit the rainforests and can be found in the lowland areas as well as the mountainous regions. These geckos are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. Their natural habitat provides them with a variety of hiding spots and plenty of foliage for climbing. The temperature in their natural habitat ranges from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with high humidity levels. It is important to recreate these conditions in their terrarium to ensure their well-being.

Physical Characteristics

Crested geckos, also known as eyelash geckos, are small to medium-sized lizards. They have a distinctive appearance with a crested ridge that runs from the head to the tail. This crest is made up of soft, fleshy spines that give the gecko a unique and striking look. Crested geckos also have large, round eyes with vertical pupils, which allow them to see well in low light conditions. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid colors, stripes, and spots. Additionally, cresties have the ability to shed their tails as a defense mechanism, which can regrow over time. Overall, the physical characteristics of crested geckos make them fascinating and visually appealing pets.

Housing and Environment

Terrarium Setup

When setting up a terrarium for your crested gecko, it is important to provide a suitable environment that mimics their natural habitat. The terrarium should be spacious enough to allow for climbing and hiding spots. It is recommended to use a glass or plastic enclosure with proper ventilation. The substrate should be a mix of coconut fiber and orchid bark to create a moist and humid environment. Additionally, it is important to include live plants and branches for your gecko to climb on. The terrarium should also have a temperature gradient, with a basking spot of around 80-85°F and a cooler area of around 70-75°F. Lastly, make sure to provide a water dish for drinking and mist the terrarium daily to maintain proper humidity levels.

Temperature and Humidity

Maintaining the proper temperature and humidity levels is crucial for the health and well-being of your crested gecko. The ideal temperature range for a crested gecko is between 72-78°F (22-25°C), while the humidity level should be kept around 50-70%. To achieve these conditions, it is recommended to use a thermostat to regulate the temperature and a hygrometer to monitor the humidity. It is important to provide a thermal gradient within the terrarium, with a warm side and a cooler side, to allow the gecko to thermoregulate. Additionally, misting the terrarium with water multiple times a day can help maintain the necessary humidity levels. Remember to always use dechlorinated water when misting. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the temperature and humidity levels will ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for your crested gecko.

Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for the health and well-being of crested geckos. The terrarium should have a light schedule that mimics the natural day-night cycle, with 12-14 hours of light and 10-12 hours of darkness. Additionally, it is important to provide a basking spot with a higher temperature where the gecko can thermoregulate. A temperature gradient should be maintained in the terrarium.

Feeding and Nutrition

Dietary Requirements

Crested geckos have specific dietary requirements that need to be met in order to ensure their health and well-being. Their diet mainly consists of fruit-based powdered diets, which provide the necessary nutrients they need. It is important to offer a variety of flavors and rotate between different brands to ensure a balanced diet. Additionally, live insects can be offered as occasional treats to provide enrichment and mental stimulation. It is crucial to avoid feeding them toxic foods, such as citrus fruits, avocado, and onions, as they can be harmful to their health. Providing a calcium supplement is also essential to prevent calcium deficiency and related health issues. Overall, a well-balanced and varied diet is key to keeping your crested gecko healthy and thriving.

Feeding Schedule

A feeding schedule is crucial for the proper care of your Crested Gecko. These reptiles are nocturnal, so it is important to provide food during their active hours, which are usually in the evening. Crested Geckos primarily feed on a diet of fruit-based powdered meal replacement. It is recommended to offer food every other day, ensuring that the diet is varied and includes a mix of flavors. Additionally, providing a shallow dish of fresh water should be done daily to ensure hydration. Supplements such as calcium and vitamin D3 should be sprinkled on the food a few times a week to meet their nutritional needs.

Supplements

Supplements play a crucial role in ensuring the optimal health and well-being of your crested gecko. Calcium and vitamin D3 are essential supplements that should be provided regularly to prevent metabolic bone disease. Multivitamin supplements are also recommended to ensure your gecko receives all the necessary vitamins and minerals. It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a reptile veterinarian for specific supplement recommendations for your crested gecko.

Health and Care

Handling and Taming

When it comes to handling and taming your crested gecko, it's important to approach them with patience and gentleness. These reptiles can be skittish and may take some time to get used to being handled. Start by allowing your gecko to become comfortable in its terrarium before attempting any handling. When you do begin handling, make sure to support their body and avoid grabbing or squeezing them. Use slow and gentle movements to build trust with your gecko. It's also important to wash your hands before and after handling to prevent the spread of any bacteria. With time and consistency, your crested gecko can become more comfortable with handling and may even enjoy interacting with you.

Common Health Issues

Crested geckos are generally hardy reptiles, but they can still experience some health issues. It is important for owners to be aware of these common health issues and how to prevent and treat them. Some of the common health issues that crest geckos may experience include metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites. Metabolic bone disease can occur due to a lack of proper calcium and vitamin D3 in their diet, leading to weak bones and deformities. Respiratory infections can be caused by poor husbandry, such as incorrect temperature and humidity levels. Regular veterinary care and a balanced diet can help prevent and treat these health issues in crested geckos.

Veterinary Care

When it comes to the health of your crested gecko, it is important to have a reliable veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure your gecko's well-being. Some common health issues that may arise include metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasite infestations. If you notice any signs of illness or abnormal behavior, it is crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. Additionally, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for your gecko can help prevent many health problems. Regularly clean the terrarium, provide fresh water, and monitor the temperature and humidity levels to promote a healthy living space for your crested gecko.