Description
Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
The Crested Gecko is one of the most popular pet geckos, loved for its distinctive eyelashes, expressive appearance and fantastic variety of colours and patterns. Native to New Caledonia, these arboreal geckos are active climbers with plenty of personality and relatively straightforward care requirements, making them an excellent choice for both newer and experienced reptile keepers.
Habitat
Crested Geckos are arboreal reptiles that spend much of their time climbing amongst branches and foliage.
- Enclosure: Tall, secure and well-ventilated arboreal terrarium with plenty of vertical space
- Temperature: Generally around 22–26°C during the day, with a slight drop at night
- Overheating: Avoid prolonged temperatures above approximately 28°C
- Humidity: Generally around 60–80%, allowing some drying between misting
- Lighting: A suitable day/night cycle should be provided, with appropriate low-level UVB strongly recommended
- Decor: Branches, cork bark, vines, foliage and plenty of elevated resting and hiding areas
- An elevated feeding ledge is ideal for food and water
- Regular misting provides drinking droplets and helps maintain appropriate humidity
Feeding
Crested Geckos are omnivorous and are particularly convenient to feed thanks to the availability of complete Crested Gecko diets.
- Staple Diet: High-quality complete Crested Gecko diet mixed with water
- Live Foods: Crickets, locusts, roaches and other appropriately sized insects can be offered alongside the prepared diet
- Juveniles: Food should be available frequently to support healthy growth
- Adults: Complete diet can generally be offered several times per week, with live insects offered periodically
- Live foods should be gut-loaded and appropriately supplemented with calcium and vitamins
- Fresh water should always be available
General Care
Crested Geckos are generally hardy, manageable reptiles that can become comfortable with gentle interaction once settled.
- Temperament: Generally calm, curious and active
- Handling: Usually tolerates gentle handling, although they can jump suddenly and should always be handled carefully
- Adult Size: Approximately 20–25cm including the tail
- Lifespan: Commonly 15–20+ years with excellent care
- Activity: Primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, becoming most active during the evening and night
- Tail: Crested Geckos can drop their tail when frightened or stressed, and unlike many other geckos, it does not grow back
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning, fresh water, correct temperatures, suitable humidity and good ventilation are essential
Why Choose a Crested Gecko?
- Fantastic variety of colours, patterns and morphs
- Distinctive eyelashes and expressive appearance
- Relatively straightforward husbandry
- Complete prepared diets make feeding convenient
- Generally calm and manageable
- Fascinating climbing and jumping behaviour
- Excellent choice for newer and experienced reptile keepers
With its fantastic personality, unusual appearance and manageable care requirements, the Crested Gecko is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a charismatic arboreal reptile.
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