Crested geckos have surged in popularity as pets, and for good reason. These captivating reptiles are known for their ease of care, manageable size, striking appearance, and endearing personalities. If you’re considering welcoming a crested gecko into your home, understanding their specific needs is crucial for their health and happiness. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of Crested Gecko Care, ensuring you provide the best possible environment for your new companion.
A Glimpse into Crested Gecko History and Habitat
Once believed to be extinct in 1994, the crested gecko ( Correlophus ciliatus ) made a remarkable comeback thanks to rediscovery in New Caledonia. This island nation in the southwest Pacific is the crested gecko’s native home. They primarily inhabit the southern portion of Grande Terre, the main island, and the Isle of Pines. These arboreal geckos thrive in the region’s tropical climate, spending their lives among low shrubs and small trees. New Caledonia experiences a warm, humid season from November to March, with temperatures reaching up to 86°F (30°C). The cooler, drier season from June to August sees temperatures around 72°F (22°C). Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, reaching up to 120 inches annually, creating a lush, tropical environment perfect for crested geckos.
Setting Up the Perfect Crested Gecko Enclosure
Creating the right habitat is paramount for crested gecko well-being. A secure, escape-proof terrarium is essential. The size of the enclosure should be adjusted as your gecko grows. For juvenile crested geckos up to six months old, a 10-gallon terrarium or a vertical enclosure like the Zilla Vertical Tropical Kit provides adequate space without overwhelming them. Too large of an enclosure for a young gecko can cause stress and feeding difficulties.
Once your crested gecko surpasses six months of age, you can upgrade to a larger enclosure, such as an 18x18x25 inch front-opening terrarium. The Zilla Vertical Tropical Kit can also serve as a permanent home for a single adult crested gecko. If you plan to house multiple crested geckos, never house two males together, as they are territorial and will fight. For a pair, an 18x18x20 inch terrarium or larger is recommended.
Vertical space is more crucial than floor space for these arboreal climbers. Fill the terrarium with a variety of climbing opportunities using both real and artificial plants and branches. Consider incorporating Zilla Vertical Décor and a Zilla Spring Cave to add both aesthetic appeal and functional hiding spots. For substrate, Zilla Jungle Mix is an excellent choice as it retains humidity effectively. Adding clumps of Zilla Terrarium Moss on top of the substrate will further enhance humidity levels within the enclosure.
Temperature, Lighting, and Humidity: Replicating a Tropical Environment
Maintaining the correct temperature and humidity levels is vital for crested gecko health. Crested geckos are highly sensitive to high temperatures and should never be exposed to temperatures exceeding 80°F (27°C) for extended periods, as this can be fatal. Aim to keep the ambient temperature of the terrarium between 72-75°F (22-24°C). Creating a temperature gradient within the enclosure is beneficial. A low-wattage heat source like a 25w Zilla Mini Halogen Bulb can provide a localized basking spot without overheating the entire terrarium.
While crested geckos are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, they still benefit from low levels of UVB exposure. Using a Zilla Mini Compact Fluorescent UVB Bulb in conjunction with the 25w Zilla Mini Halogen Bulb in a Dual Low Profile Fixture provides an ideal lighting setup to support your gecko’s overall well-being.
Humidity is a critical factor in crested gecko care, mimicking their native tropical island environment. Adequate humidity is essential for their ability to smell their food and facilitates proper shedding. Daily misting of the terrarium is necessary to maintain humidity levels. Crested geckos will also drink water droplets from leaves and terrarium walls after misting. A small water dish like the Zilla Terraced Dish can be added to the enclosure to help boost humidity, but it must be kept clean. Even with a water dish, regular misting remains crucial.
Feeding Your Crested Gecko: A Balanced Diet
In their natural habitat, crested geckos are omnivores, consuming both insects and fruits. In captivity, commercially formulated crested gecko diets offer a convenient and nutritionally complete food source. These diets are readily available in powder form and are mixed with water to create a palatable paste. While these powdered diets form the foundation of their nutrition, supplementing with live insects can provide enrichment and variety. Offer insects like crickets, ensuring they are appropriately sized (no larger than the distance between the gecko’s snout and eye). Feeding should occur 2-3 times per week.
To enhance the nutritional value of feeder insects, gut-load them with Zilla Gut Load Cricket Drink and dust them with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding. Zilla Calcium Supplement Spray and Zilla Vitamin Supplement Spray are convenient options. Serve food in a small dish placed on a branch or elevated platform to encourage natural feeding behavior and prevent the gecko from having to descend to the ground to eat.
Handling and Interaction with Your Crested Gecko
Crested geckos generally tolerate handling well, even from a young age. However, gentle and deliberate handling is key. Always avoid dropping or injuring your gecko. When handling, allow them to walk freely across your hands rather than restraining them. Never grab a crested gecko by its tail, as they can detach it as a defense mechanism if they feel threatened. While tails do not grow back, tail loss is not life-threatening. Most adult crested geckos become quite docile and easily handled with regular, gentle interaction.
Remember to always wash your hands thoroughly after handling any reptile to maintain good hygiene.
With proper crested gecko care and attention to their environmental and dietary needs, you can enjoy the companionship of these fascinating reptiles for many years. They are truly rewarding pets for reptile enthusiasts of all levels.
