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Crested Gecko Overview
Crested geckos, scientifically known as Correlophus ciliatus, are fascinating reptiles belonging to the Diplodactylidae family. Originating from New Caledonia, they captivate reptile enthusiasts around the world. Though first discovered in 1866 and once thought to be extinct, these geckos are now frequently bred and available for purchase in countries such as the United States and Canada.
One of their most eye-catching features is the crest above their eyes, which gives them a distinctive and charming appearance. They also boast a wide array of colors, ensuring no two are exactly alike. This vibrant variety makes them a favorite among both novice and experienced lizard lovers.
- valued for their friendly temperament,
- straightforward care requirements,
- crested geckos make excellent companions for those seeking a low-maintenance reptile.
Their ease of adaptation to captivity further enhances their appeal as pets.
Crested geckos offer a blend of unique appearance, gentle nature, and uncomplicated care needs. This combination makes them an ideal choice for reptile enthusiasts looking for an engaging yet easy-to-manage pet experience.

Scientific Classification
The crested gecko, scientifically named Correlophus ciliatus, belongs to the Diplodactylidae family. In the vast animal kingdom, it is classified under:
- domain Eukaryota,
- kingdom Animalia,
- phylum Chordata,
- class Reptilia,
- order Squamata.
This classification highlights its unique characteristics as a member of the reptile class among geckos.
Rediscovery and Conservation Status
Believed to have been extinct until their rediscovery in 1994, crested geckos now inhabit New Caledonia once more. The IUCN Red List categorizes them as vulnerable, underscoring the significant dangers they encounter, including:
- habitat destruction,
- threats from predators like the little fire ant,
- challenges from invasive species.
Efforts to conserve these geckos are supported by CITES, which seeks to control international trade and ensure their survival. Safeguarding their habitats and addressing challenges from invasive species are crucial measures for enhancing their prospects.
Physical Characteristics and Color Morphs
Crested geckos are fascinating creatures, typically growing to about 8 to 10 inches in length. Their most eye-catching feature is the crest that stretches from above their eyes down to their tail, giving them a distinctive look. Additionally, they possess a semi-prehensile tail that aids in climbing, perfectly suited for their arboreal lifestyle.
These geckos boast an array of captivating color morphs:
- harlequin, celebrated for its elaborate patterns and colors,
- dalmatian, distinguished by its spots,
- pinstripe, characterized by bold stripes running along its back,
- lilly white, with its creamy white hue contrasting with striking patterns,
- tricolor, showcasing a blend of three different colors.
The diversity in color and pattern ensures each crested gecko is unique. With shades ranging from grey to yellow, they offer endless possibilities for reptile enthusiasts who appreciate having pets with rich visual variety.
Lifespan and Longevity
Crested geckos, when cared for as pets, can enjoy a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. This longevity requires owners to be dedicated for the long term. A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients and vitamins is crucial for their health. Moreover, providing an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat is vital; this includes maintaining the right levels of humidity and temperature. Routine health check-ups play a significant role as well, allowing any issues to be identified early, thereby contributing to the gecko’s overall wellbeing and extended life span.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Crested geckos primarily reside in the lush, humid rainforests of New Caledonia, where the thick vegetation and moisture-laden air create an ideal habitat for their climbing and hiding instincts. These reptiles are nocturnal, skillfully navigating through the treetops using their powerful limbs and tails.
These agile creatures are capable of impressive leaps, enabling them to traverse branches with ease in search of food or to evade predators. Their diet consists of fruit, nectar, and insects found within their rainforest environment.
By day, crested geckos conceal themselves among leaves or the rough texture of tree bark, providing safety from predators while conserving energy. As night falls, they become active once more, venturing out to forage for sustenance—a critical aspect for maintaining their health.
When caring for crested geckos as pets, it’s essential to mimic their natural surroundings:
- ensure ample climbing opportunities,
- maintain humidity levels between 60-80%,
- provide a diverse diet.
This approach significantly enhances their well-being in captivity.
Read more about: Crested gecko – Natural Habitat and Behavior
Purchasing and Owning a Crested Gecko
Thinking about adding a crested gecko to your family? Start by considering your level of experience. These reptiles are quite straightforward to care for, making them an excellent choice for novices. They’re docile and easy to handle.
When it comes to purchasing one, you’ll need to decide between getting your gecko from a breeder or a pet store.
- breeders can provide insights into the gecko’s ancestry and color patterns, which is beneficial if you’re after certain characteristics,
- pet stores offer convenience but might lack detailed genetic backgrounds.
Selecting a healthy crested gecko involves examining its physical state and behavior. Ensure it has clear eyes and unblemished skin. An active demeanor is also indicative of good health. To help them thrive in captivity, create an enclosure that mimics their natural surroundings. Keep humidity levels between 60-80% and offer the right diet to ensure their well-being. Owning a crested gecko is rewarding with minimal maintenance required, appealing to both new pet enthusiasts and seasoned reptile aficionados alike.
Crested Gecko Care and Husbandry
Caring for a crested gecko involves recreating an environment that mimics their natural habitat to ensure they thrive. Aim to maintain humidity levels between 60-80% and keep temperatures within the range of 72-78°F in their enclosure. Using a substrate like coconut fiber is beneficial as it holds moisture well and allows these creatures to dig.
Keeping the enclosure clean is crucial for your gecko’s health. Regularly clear out waste and any uneaten food, and disinfect the surfaces monthly. Replace the substrate when needed to prevent bacterial growth, ensuring a hygienic space.
A crested gecko’s diet should primarily consist of balanced commercial food, but you can also offer insects such as crickets or mealworms as occasional treats. Ensure they have access to fresh water daily by placing it in a shallow dish for easy drinking.
Monitoring your gecko’s health is important. Be attentive to signs of illness like lethargy or unexpected weight loss. Routine vet check-ups are essential for early detection of any potential health issues, which contributes significantly to their well-being and longevity. Adhering to these care tips will help keep your crested gecko healthy and content in captivity.
Read more about Crested Gecko lighting, heating & humidity requirements
Diet and Nutrition
Crested geckos enjoy a diet that includes both plant and animal matter, such as fruit, nectar, and insects. A popular choice for their nutrition is the commercially available crested gecko diet (CGD), known for offering balanced nourishment. This prepared blend supplies them with vital vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining good health.
While CGD should be the primary source of food, you can occasionally introduce fresh fruits like mango or banana to diversify their meals. Insects like crickets or mealworms make excellent treats but shouldn’t replace the main diet. Maintaining a regular feeding routine is crucial—usually every other day works well. By keeping an eye on how much they eat, you can avoid overfeeding and ensure they stay healthy. It’s also important to provide fresh water daily to keep them hydrated.
By following these dietary guidelines, crested geckos can thrive in captivity, emulating their natural eating patterns found in the wild.
Read more about Crested Gecko food / diet
Health and Veterinary Care
Crested geckos can encounter health challenges such as metabolic bone disease, often stemming from insufficient calcium intake. To ward off this condition, it’s crucial to provide an adequate supply of calcium and vitamin D3. They are also prone to respiratory infections, typically caused by low humidity levels or poor air circulation in their habitat. Ensuring the environment remains suitably humid and well-ventilated can mitigate these problems.
Routine veterinary visits play a key role in identifying health issues early on since geckos may not exhibit symptoms until a condition becomes severe. Some common concerns include:
- difficulties with shedding skin,
- digestive troubles,
- which require prompt attention from a reptile-specific veterinarian.
Preventative veterinary care should focus on maintaining a balanced diet and creating an optimal living environment. If you notice unusual signs like lethargy or a lack of appetite, it’s essential to consult a vet immediately to address any potential health concerns swiftly.
Read more about Crested Gecko common illnesses
Breeding and Gender Identification
To successfully breed crested geckos, one must understand their reproductive cycle and be able to distinguish between males and females. These geckos usually produce two eggs per clutch, with the breeding season spanning 8 to 10 months. For optimal breeding results, it’s crucial to establish well-structured groups. A typical arrangement involves pairing one male with several females to enhance genetic variety.
Identifying the gender of these reptiles accurately is essential in this process. Males can be recognized by the hemipenal bulges at the base of their tails, a feature absent in females. In younger geckos where these traits might not be apparent, genetic testing offers a dependable way to ascertain gender.
When embarking on breeding crested geckos, it’s imperative to recreate an environment that mimics their natural habitat closely. This involves:
- maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels,
- ensuring that both males and females reside in a stress-free atmosphere.
These conditions are crucial for successful reproduction.
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John M. Harrison is a passionate terrarist and reptile hobbyist with over 15 years of hands-on experience. Based in Portland, Oregon, John has cultivated his love for reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates by building and maintaining thriving terrariums and vivariums in his home. His articles, are dedicated to helping enthusiasts—both beginners and experienced keepers—create the ideal habitats for their pets. He shares practical tips, habitat guides, and stories from his own collection.