Crested Gecko Care Sheet

 

 

Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus
Common Names: Crested Gecko, Eyelash Gecko
Origin: Native to New Caledonia (a group of islands in the southwest Pacific)
Average Size: 7-10 inches (18-25 cm)
Lifespan: 10-20 years in captivity

Overview

The Crested Gecko is a popular pet reptile known for its unique appearance, including its "crests" of skin above the eyes and along the back. These geckos are arboreal, nocturnal, and relatively easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers. With proper care, they can live for 10-20 years in captivity.

Housing Requirements

Enclosure Size

  • Young Crested Geckos (under 4 inches): Minimum 10-gallon tank
  • Adult Crested Geckos (4+ inches): Minimum 20-gallon tank, but 30-gallon tanks or larger are ideal for adults.

Since crested geckos are arboreal, a taller tank is preferable, giving them the ability to climb and explore vertically. A 20-gallon vertical tank works well for adults.

Enclosure Setup

  • Substrate: Use substrates like coco peat, peat moss or sphagnum moss.
  • Climbing Features: Crested geckos love to climb. Add branches, vines, cork bark, or plants (live or artificial) to allow for climbing and hiding.
  • Hides: Provide at least two hides, one on the warm side and one on the cool side, to help your gecko feel secure.
  • Water: Offer a shallow water dish and mist the enclosure regularly to help maintain humidity levels.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature Gradient:
    • Warm Side: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
    • Cool Side: 70-75°F (21-24°C)
  • Basking Spot: Crested geckos don't require a basking spot but do enjoy a warmer area within their enclosure. Temperatures should remain between 75-80°F during the day.
  • Nighttime Temperature: Maintain temperatures around 65-70°F (18-21°C) at night.
  • Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 70-80%. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity, as this is critical for hydration and successful shedding.

Note: Mist the enclosure 1-2 times daily to help maintain humidity levels, and provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking.

Feeding Diet: Crested geckos are omnivores and eat a variety of food, including:

-Crested Gecko Powder Products: There are many high-quality, calcium-rich crested gecko diets available that provide the necessary nutrients.

-Live Insects: Offer crickets, dubia roaches, or fruit flies occasionally to provide variety and protein.

-Fruits: Offer fresh fruits like mashed bananas, mango, and papaya occasionally as a treat. Fresh fruit should be offered only 1-2 times a week.

-Occasional Treats: You can offer baby food (such as pureed fruits) or other appropriate insect varieties occasionally.

Feeding Frequency:

      • Juvenile Crested Geckos: Feed every day or every other day.
      • Adult Crested Geckos: Feed every 2-3 days, primarily with commercial gecko diet, supplemented by live insects and fruit.

Supplements: Dust feeder insects with calcium powder 2-3 times a week and with a multivitamin supplement once a week to ensure balanced nutrition.

Shedding

  • Shedding Process: Crested geckos shed regularly as they grow, with younger geckos shedding more frequently than adults.
  • Humidity: Adequate humidity (70-80%) is important to facilitate proper shedding. Mist the enclosure during shedding periods if the gecko is having trouble.
  • Signs of Shedding: The gecko’s skin may appear dull or cloudy, and they may rub their face and body on rough surfaces to aid the shedding process.
  • Retention of Shed: If parts of the shed (like around the toes or tail) remain stuck, increase humidity or offer a moist hide to help with the process. Consult a vet if shedding issues persist.

Handling

  • Temperament: Crested geckos are generally calm and can become tolerant of handling if done gently and infrequently. They are nocturnal and might be more active in the evening or at night.
  • Handling Frequency: Limit handling to 1-2 times a week to prevent stress. Gradually increase handling sessions if the gecko seems comfortable.
  • Safety: Always support the gecko’s body, especially the tail, which can break off if dropped. Avoid handling immediately after feeding or during shedding.

Health & Veterinary Care

  • Common Health Issues:
    • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) due to inadequate calcium or UVB exposure.
    • Respiratory infections (often due to improper humidity or temperature).
    • Parasites, both internal and external (such as mites).
    • Retained shed, especially around toes or tail.
  • Routine Checkups: Schedule annual health checkups with a reptile-savvy vet. They can check for internal parasites and monitor the gecko’s overall health.
  • Signs of Illness: Lack of appetite, lethargy, wheezing or labored breathing, abnormal stool, or swollen joints may indicate illness.
  • Signs of Stress: Excessive hiding, refusal to eat, or tail loss (which can occur from stress) are common signs of stress. Stress may be caused by poor environmental conditions, too much handling, or the presence of other pets.

Breeding Information

  • Sexing: Males tend to have larger, broader heads and a more pronounced tail base, while females are generally smaller with a less pronounced tail.
  • Breeding Season: Crested geckos typically breed in the fall or winter. They may require a slight cooling period (around 65-70°F) to trigger breeding behavior.
  • Egg-Laying: Female geckos will lay 2 soft-shelled eggs every 3-4 weeks during breeding season. Eggs should be incubated at 75-80°F (24-27°C) with 80% humidity.
  • Incubation: Incubation typically takes 60-90 days, and hatchlings are usually independent once they emerge. Provide a separate enclosure for babies after they hatch.

Conclusion

Crested geckos are hardy, fascinating pets that are easy to care for, making them a great choice for reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels. With a properly maintained enclosure, a balanced diet, and some regular attention, a crested gecko can live for many years in captivity and thrive in its environment.

Note: Be sure to research and understand the specific needs of your crested gecko, particularly regarding diet, humidity, and temperature, to ensure it lives a healthy and happy life in your care.