Crested geckos (Correlophus ciliatus), also known as “cresties,” are among the most popular pet reptiles due to their unique appearance, manageable care requirements, and engaging personalities. Native to New Caledonia, a group of islands in the South Pacific, these arboreal lizards were once thought to be extinct but were rediscovered in the 1990s. Their unique eyelashes and crest-like ridges running from their eyes to their tails make them visually striking and highly desirable among reptile enthusiasts.
Behavior
Crested geckos are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the evening and night. During the day, they often rest in high places or hide among foliage. As pets, they are generally calm, curious, and easy to handle, especially if properly socialized from a young age. Though they may be jumpy when startled, they typically don’t bite and can become accustomed to regular interaction with their owners.
Crested geckos are also known for their unique ability to drop their tails as a defense mechanism when frightened. Unlike some other gecko species, crested geckos do not regenerate their tails once lost, but this does not affect their quality of life. They are agile climbers, thanks to their specialized toe pads, which allow them to adhere to vertical surfaces, making them fascinating to observe in a naturalistic enclosure.
Care Guidelines
Crested geckos are relatively easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginner reptile keepers. They thrive in vertically oriented enclosures that mimic their natural environment, which is filled with trees and dense vegetation. A minimum tank size of 12″ x 12″ x 18″ is recommended for a single adult, but larger enclosures allow for more exploration and climbing.
Temperature and Humidity: Crested geckos prefer moderate temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C). They are sensitive to high heat, so it’s essential to keep their enclosure cool, especially in warmer climates. Humidity levels should be maintained at 60-80%, with daily misting to provide hydration and humidity.
Diet: These geckos are omnivorous and can thrive on a diet of commercially available crested gecko diet (CGD), which is a powdered mix of fruits, vitamins, and proteins. In addition to this, they can occasionally be fed live insects such as crickets or small roaches, dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements.
Lighting: While crested geckos are nocturnal and do not require intense UVB lighting like some other reptiles, providing low-level UVB can still benefit their overall health and calcium metabolism.
Crested Geckos as Pets
Crested geckos are ideal pets for both beginners and experienced keepers due to their hardy nature and minimal care requirements. Their friendly demeanor and ease of handling make them suitable for children under supervision, while their unique appearance and behaviors keep enthusiasts engaged. Crested geckos are not demanding and do not require specialized heating or lighting equipment, which lowers the cost of setup and maintenance.
Their interactive nature makes them fun to observe as they explore their environment, and they can live up to 20 years in captivity, making them a long-term companion. Crested geckos are known for forming bonds with their owners, and with consistent care, they can become comfortable being handled.
Overall, crested geckos offer a perfect blend of beauty, ease of care, and interesting behaviors, making them a wonderful addition to any reptile collection or as a stand-alone pet.
