Care Guide - Crested Gecko

Can they be Cohabilitated?

I strongly advise against cohabitating for extended periods. Cohabitation should only occur during breeding. At all other times, keep them separated to prevent unnecessary aggression and stress.

What size do they get?

Geckos of this species are considered moderately sized, typically reaching about 20-25 cm in length. Both males and females are generally similar in size.

When will i see them?

The crested gecko is a fascinating species known for its crepuscular behavior, meaning it becomes active during the twilight hours. Shortly after nightfall, these geckos awaken, their pupils dilating as they enter hunting mode. They remain active and agile, exploring and hunting, until the early hours of the morning.

Costs to keep

How much will it roughly cost you to keep an individual Crested Gecko well including the setup and ongoing costs, this does not include unexpected vet bills or the rising cost of products over time.

Used for energy calculation : https://www.sust-it.net/energy-calculator.php

Distribution:

These creatures have an extremely limited distribution, found exclusively in New Caledonia. They were believed to be extinct until 1994, when one unexpectedly landed on a researcher, leading to their remarkable rediscovery. As shown in the map below, their range is primarily concentrated in the southern region of the island.

Image captured from iNaturalist

The image below is a Google Maps photo shared by someone, showcasing a location near several reported sightings of this animal in the southern part of the island. This specific area, known as Haut Cascade De Goro, features dense trees, lush foliage, and rugged rocky outcrops, as seen in the photo.

Rating - (Ease of care) - Easy - ★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

★ - Requirement of lower temps comapred to other species of reptiles

★ - Can climb walls fast if they want to (Escape risk)

Setup Requirements:

For an adult, you'll need a minimum enclosure size of 45x45x60 cm, but providing additional space is always beneficial. Ideally, the enclosure should be taller than it is wide, as they prefer utilizing vertical space. I recommend choosing a terrarium with three sides blacked out, as they tend to feel stressed if too exposed during the day. Clear glass without proper coverage can make them uneasy. While the minimum size works, a larger enclosure, such as 60x45x90 cm, is ideal in the long term to give them ample space to roam and thrive.

Substrate options and decor

I have discovered that a substrate blend of coco coir, sedge peat, and Crestie Life works exceptionally well for maintaining humidity in your crested gecko's enclosure. If you're incorporating live plants, consider adding a layer of hydroballs at the bottom for drainage. To prevent soil invertebrates from mixing with the drainage layer, cover the hydroballs with a layer of tulle fabric. Once the base is set, plant your live plants and secure them using a substrate mix of coco coir, sedge peat, and Crestie Life in a 20:30:50 ratio. This combination provides ample nutrients to support healthy plant growth. To create a natural, enriching environment, add plenty of décor for your crested gecko to hide and explore. Use items like twigs, cork bark, and artificial plants to design a lush, forest-like jungle setting. This not only enhances the enclosure's appearance but also meets your gecko's environmental needs.

Suitable Live Plants -

Monstera: A fantastic plant choice for Crested geckos. Its large leaves provide plenty of hiding spots, creating a natural and secure environment for your gecko.

Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae): Perfect for covering the lower layers of the enclosure, these plants add visual appeal while offering cozy hiding places near their base.

Pothos: Similar to Monstera, Pothos thrives in humid environments and offers excellent coverage and hiding spaces for your gecko.

If you're looking to recreate a natural habitat for your crested gecko, here are some plants native to New Caledonia and the regions where these geckos are commonly found. Please note: it’s crucial to conduct additional research on any of the plants mentioned here, as some can be toxic to cats and dogs, and this might also apply to crested geckos.

Snow Bush (Breynia disticha): This small, bush-like plant provides excellent hiding spots due to its dense foliage, making it a great option for a modest-sized enclosure. However, it’s important to note that this plant is toxic to cats and dogs. While no information is currently available on its toxicity for crested geckos, proceed with caution and ensure it is safe before use.

Orange Jasmine (Murraya paniculata): Native to New Caledonia, this bush-like plant features thick, dense foliage, making it a perfect centerpiece or base plant for your enclosure. Its structure not only enhances the natural aesthetic but also provides ample hiding spaces for your gecko.

False Aralia (Dizygotheca elegantissima): Another plant native to New Caledonia, the False Aralia has long, spiked leaves that create a striking visual effect. Be mindful, though—this plant can grow up to 2 meters tall, so occasional pruning will be necessary to maintain a manageable size within the enclosure.

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema marantifolium): This large-leaved shrub is another excellent option found in New Caledonia. Its broad leaves provide good coverage and hiding spots, making it suitable for a naturalistic enclosure setup.

Hoya Limoniaca: A native plant of New Caledonia, the Hoya Limoniaca thrives in forest regions. Its growth pattern makes it ideal for creating a natural, gecko-friendly habitat, offering both climbing opportunities and shelter.

Heating and lighting

To ensure your crested gecko thrives, it's important to maintain the room temperature between 22°C and 25°C. At this range, additional heating isn't usually necessary. However, I recommend installing an 8W 7% UVB bulb above the enclosure. This not only provides essential UVB exposure for their health but also adds a slight increase in temperature, creating a comfortable basking spot. Crested geckos don’t require temperatures much higher than ambient room heat—never let it exceed 30°C, as this can be fatal. Without proper UVB exposure, your gecko is at a significantly higher risk of developing metabolic bone disease. When UVB lighting is combined with a diet supplemented with D3 and other essential vitamins, you're ensuring their optimal health. If your home tends to drop below 20°C, especially during winter, consider using a small 25-watt heating fixture paired with a thermostat to maintain adequate temperatures. This will keep your gecko comfortable and safe during colder months.

By conducting further research, we can determine the seasonal temperature range experienced by these animals throughout the year. Below is some data from Weather Spark for the region they inhabit. During the summer months (October to March in the Southern Hemisphere), temperatures can reach a peak of 31°C. However, this is the overall ambient temperature, and since these animals typically reside in dense forests, they are unlikely to be exposed to such high temperatures for extended periods. In the winter, temperatures drop to around 15°C, which is still relatively warm. Based on this data, we can conclude that a natural temperature drop of about 6°C during the winter months is typical for them. Allowing their environment to drop below 15°C for extended periods could be detrimental, as such prolonged cold conditions are not something they would naturally encounter in the wild.

Date Collected from weatherspark.com

Humidity requirements -

The Crested Gecko is typically maintained in humidity levels ranging from 60% to 80% year-round. This can be achieved with one misting session in the morning or evening, or two sessions—one in the morning and one in the evening—if you’re in a drier environment. However, when we examine the broader climate of New Caledonia, we find that during the winter months, relative humidity can drop significantly, even as low as 6% in certain areas. That said, this data represents general conditions and doesn't account for the microhabitats where these geckos are likely to reside, such as damp forested areas where the humidity is higher. Personally, I would still recommend maintaining humidity levels between 60% and 80% in captivity. However, it’s interesting to consider that in their natural environment, they may experience periods of significantly lower humidity. Something to think about!

Date Collected from weatherspark.com

Diet and nutrition

Caring for a crested gecko involves a simple yet balanced diet, with some variety to meet their nutritional needs. While the majority of their diet can consist of a prepared crested gecko diet, it's important to include live foods in a ratio of approximately 70:30. Below is a list of foods that your crested gecko can enjoy:

• Crested gecko diet (commercially prepared)
• Crickets
• Soldier fly larvae
• Morio worms
• Fruits (Avoid citrus and banana)
• Dubia roaches

Feed your gecko every 3-4 days, alternating between a prepared crested gecko diet and live foods like crickets or other options from the list above. Always dust live foods with calcium (with D3) and other essential vitamins to ensure your gecko stays healthy and happy. It’s worth noting that overfeeding is a common mistake, as is relying entirely on pre-made crested gecko diets. While these prepared diets are an excellent component of their nutrition, they should not make up 100% of their meals. Variety is essential for optimal health, and this holds true for crested geckos as well as other reptiles.

A healthy adult crested gecko typically weighs between 35g and 45g. Keep in mind that young geckos will naturally weigh less as they grow. However, while weight is a helpful guideline, assessing your gecko’s overall body condition is equally important. A healthy gecko should not appear overly round, nor should its spine or other bones be visible. Strive to maintain a balanced appearance, as this reflects the animal's overall health.

To support hydration and ensure proper shedding, mist your gecko’s enclosure once or twice daily. Additionally, always provide a shallow water bowl as a backup source of hydration and to help prevent issues like stuck shed.

Handling -

Crested geckos are generally a joy to handle, but it's essential to follow some basic guidelines to ensure their safety and comfort. First and foremost, consider the timing of handling. Limit handling sessions during the day to less than 10 minutes, as these geckos are nocturnal and typically sleep during daylight hours. If you handle them during their active period at night, be aware that they are much quicker and more energetic. Always keep a close eye on them, and make sure doors and vents in the room are securely closed to prevent escapes.

It's also crucial to ensure the area is safe from other pets that could pose a threat. Pets such as dogs or cats should be kept out of the room while handling your crested gecko. These animals can inadvertently harm the gecko or, in worst-case scenarios, cause fatal injuries.

If your crested gecko is nervous or skittish, approach them with patience. Slowly introduce your hand without making sudden movements, and avoid stressing them unnecessarily. Allow your hand to rest near them for about 20 seconds without direct eye contact. If they appear too stressed, calmly pull your hand back and try again later. Repeat this process gradually until your gecko becomes more comfortable and reacts more positively to your presence.

Day and night Cycle

Crested geckos can thrive on a standard 12-hour day and night cycle without any health concerns, which is why most keepers use this approach. However, to elevate your care routine, it’s worth considering the natural environment of New Caledonia—their native habitat. In New Caledonia, daylight hours during the summer months (October to March) range from 13 to 14.5 hours, while in winter (April to September), daylight decreases to around 12 to 13.5 hours. By replicating this natural light cycle, you can support your gecko's hormonal balance, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

Common health issues -

Stuck Shed:

Stuck shed is a common issue for geckos, but it's easy to prevent with proper care. Keep your gecko hydrated by offering fresh, clean spring water and misting their enclosure daily to maintain adequate humidity levels.

Obesity:

Obesity in crested geckos is often caused by overfeeding and a lack of variety in their diet. Prevent this by offering a balanced, diverse diet and adjusting portion sizes as needed to maintain a healthy weight.

Tail Loss:

Tail loss isn’t a serious health risk but can happen unexpectedly. If your gecko drops its tail, monitor the area closely and keep their enclosure clean to prevent infection as the wound heals.

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD):

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) is a preventable condition common in reptiles. To protect your gecko, ensure they have access to proper UVB lighting, calcium and vitamin supplements, and a well-rounded diet.

Dehydration:

Dehydration is another easily preventable concern. Always provide a bowl of fresh water and mist their enclosure regularly to maintain proper hydration.

Cleaning -

Ensure a clean and healthy habitat for your geckos by maintaining their enclosure regularly. Spray down the walls weekly to remove dirt and residue, and promptly spot-clean any visible waste. For the substrate, replace it every 1-6 months based on your setup—more frequently if you're not using springtails or isopods to aid in waste breakdown. Consistent cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and promotes your geckos' overall well-being.

Brumation

Crested geckos can experience a brumation period during the winter months, similar to hibernation. In captivity, this practice is often overlooked, as it’s rarely emphasized in most care guides. However, allowing your crested gecko to brumate can offer significant benefits, such as regulating hormones, enhancing breeding success, and giving their bodies a natural period of rest and rejuvenation. To safely prepare your crested gecko for brumation, ensure they are at least one year old, in good health, and at a healthy weight. The process involves gradually lowering the daytime temperatures over the span of a month—typically beginning in October or November. Start by reducing the temperature slowly from 26°C (78°F) to around 20°C (68°F). This gradual adjustment gives your gecko time to clear its digestive system, preventing potential issues like retained waste, which could lead to health problems during their inactive state. If your gecko is healthy and properly prepared, they can remain in this restful brumation phase for a few months, replicating the natural conditions they would experience in the wild. As the brumation period comes to an end, begin raising the temperatures back to their normal summer range over the course of two weeks. This slow transition ensures your gecko adjusts comfortably and is ready to resume normal activity levels.

Avalability -

Crested geckos are a favorite in the exotic pet world, and for good reason. Their dragon-like appearance and stunning natural crests make them a striking addition to any collection. You’ll find them readily available at most exotic pet shops, as they’ve become a staple in the hobby. A "low-quality morph" can cost as little as £30, while rare and sought-after genetic variations can fetch prices upwards of £1,000.

Morphs -

While crested gecko morphs may not be as diverse as those of other popular reptile or snake species, they still showcase some truly stunning and unique variations. Below is a table highlighting some of the incredible morphs currently available on the market.

References-

Gallery -

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