Posted on May 20th, 2023.

Crested geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world. They are known for their gentle nature, their beautiful coloration, and their relatively easy care requirements. If you are thinking about getting a crested gecko, here is everything you need to know.

What is a Crested Gecko?

The Crested Gecko, also known as the New Caledonian Crested Gecko, is a species of gecko that is native to New Caledonia, an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean. This gecko species has a unique appearance, with a crest of skin on its head that resembles a crown, hence its name.

The history of the Crested Gecko dates back to the prehistoric era, with fossil evidence suggesting that geckos have been present in New Caledonia for millions of years. However, the Crested Gecko as we know it today was not discovered by western scientists until 1866, when a French zoologist named Alphonse Milne-Edwards first described the species.

For many years, the Crested Gecko was thought to be extinct, and it was not until the early 1990s that live specimens were rediscovered in the wild. In fact, the Crested Gecko has the distinction of being one of the only lizards to have been rediscovered after being thought extinct.

The rediscovery of the Crested Gecko generated a great deal of interest among hobbyists and reptile enthusiasts, and the species has since become a popular pet in the reptile trade. Today, Crested Geckos are widely bred in captivity, and there are numerous color and pattern morphs that have been created through selective breeding.

One reason the Crested Gecko has become so popular in the pet trade is its ease of care. Unlike some other reptiles, Crested Geckos are relatively low maintenance and do not require special lighting or heating. They are also docile and easy to handle, making them great pets for children and beginners.

Despite its popularity, the Crested Gecko remains an endangered species in the wild. Habitat loss, invasive species, and illegal collection for the pet trade have all contributed to its decline, and conservation efforts are currently underway to protect the species and its habitat.

In recent years, researchers have also been studying the Crested Gecko in greater detail to better understand its biology and behavior. One area of interest has been its ability to regenerate tails. Like many lizards, the Crested Gecko can shed its tail as a defense mechanism and grow a new one. However, unlike other lizards, it can regrow the entire tail, including bones, muscles, and nerves.

Scientists are studying this unique ability in the hopes of one day being able to apply it to human medicine, particularly in the field of regenerative medicine. The Crested Gecko is also being used as a model organism to study a wide range of biological processes, from embryonic development to the genetic basis of disease.

A Colorful Animal

Crested geckos come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Some of the most common colors include:

• Yellow
• Orange
• Red
• Blue
• Green
• Brown

Crested geckos can also have a variety of patterns, such as:

• Harlequin
• Dalmatian
• Tiger
• Pinstripe
• Snowflake
• Crested Gecko Care

Crested geckos are one of the most popular species chosen by pet enthusiasts. These reptiles are small, unique and easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced pet owners.

Housing

The first thing to consider is the housing of the gecko. The most common enclosure for Crested gecko is a terrarium, which should be at least 12”x12”x18” for adult animals. The enclosure should be made from plastic or glass, with adequate ventilation to maintain the temperature and humidity required for your gecko.

In addition to the enclosure, you should provide the gecko with hiding spots, climbing structures, and a water dish. The climbing structures could be made from cork, branches, or artificial structures.

Temperature

Crested geckos are tropical animals, and therefore require a warm environment. The temperature should range between 72-78°F during the day and 65-75°F at night. You can achieve this by utilizing an under-tank heating pad, which is thermostat-controlled.

Humidity

Maintaining adequate humidity is critical for the health of your Crested gecko. The humidity should be maintained between 50-80%. It is essential to mist the enclosure regularly with warm water, particularly in the morning and evening.

Diet

Crested geckos are primarily insectivores and, in captivity, should be fed a diet of crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and roaches. It is also essential to include a nutritional supplement in their diet, which is available in various forms like fruit, jelly, and powdered supplements.

Lighting

Unlike other reptiles, Crested geckos do not require UVB lighting. However, they do need a 12-hour light and dark cycle. You can achieve this with a basic, low-wattage light bulb.

Here are some additional tips for caring for a crested gecko:

• Change the water in the water dish daily.
• Mist the enclosure with water daily to maintain humidity levels.
• Clean the enclosure thoroughly once a month.
• Take your crested gecko to the veterinarian for regular checkups.

With proper care, your crested gecko can be a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.

Temperament

Crested geckos are gentle and docile lizards. They are not aggressive and are relatively easy to handle. Crested geckos make great pets for people who are new to reptiles.

A Long Lifespan

Crested geckos can live for up to 20 years. This makes them a long-term commitment. If you are thinking about getting a crested gecko, be sure to consider the lifespan of the animal.

Where to Buy a Crested Gecko

Crested geckos can be bought from pet stores, reptile breeders, and online retailers. When buying a crested gecko, it is important to buy from a reputable source. This will help ensure that you get a healthy and well-cared-for animal.

Crested geckos are beautiful, gentle, and easy to care for reptiles. If you are looking for a pet that is both interesting and low-maintenance, a crested gecko may be the perfect choice for you.

At VSCV Reptiles, we are dedicated to offering customers the highest quality crested geckos. Our geckos are healthy, well-cared for, and bred under the best conditions. We have a passion for reptiles, and we want to share that with every person who purchases a crested gecko from us. If you are looking for an excellent companion or want to expand your collection, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find your perfect crested gecko!