Crested geckos are popular, small lizards that make great pets. For many, these cute critters are an excellent gateway to the world of reptiles. It’s relatively easy for children to care for them, too. Of course, while reptiles don’t require exercise like dogs, they do have some special needs.
Let’s look at everything first-time owners need to know about crested geckos.
1. The Basics of Crested Geckos
Crested geckos hail from New Caledonia in the South Pacific. This tropical island is a French territory, but it’s very close to Australia. These reptiles live in rainforests as an arboreal species. Typically, they love hanging out on tree branches and in foliage in the dense jungle. However, they may also explore the ground for food and shelter if necessary.
These small lizards have a very distinctive appearance. They have ridges above their eyes that resemble eyebrows. There are also long ridges that run the length of their backs. Crested geckos come in different colors including orange, brown, and yellow. Remember that first-time lizard owners should only acquire crested geckos from licensed dealers. This ensures that new owners get healthy pets free of congenital defects, physical abnormalities, and other health conditions that commonly affect reptiles.
2. Crested Geckos Eat Worms and Insects
One of the reasons why crested geckos are so popular is because it’s easy to care for them. They’ll eat all the standard food that we associate with small lizards. Geckos enjoy mealworms, crickets, and other insects.
Be careful giving them wax worms because of their high fat content. They’re an awesome treat, but they may become addictive if owners don’t take care. Experienced reptile keepers recommend “gut loading” insects and worms. This means feeding them nutrient-rich food that your gecko will also ingest through eating these bugs.
Remember to change your lizard’s water daily, even if they don’t appear to drink it. They may consume enough by eating leaves and other vegetation in their vivarium. Many owners give their pets a specialized diet that comes in powder form. This contains all the necessary nutrients lizards require.
These geckos also enjoy vegetables like bell papers, butternut squash, and okra. Avoid giving them iron-rich leaves like spinach and kale.
3. Crested Geckos Can Become Stressed if Handled
Unlike some reptiles that enjoy handling, crested geckos prefer to be left alone. This doesn’t mean that you can’t hold them. However, take care not to cause any extra stress. Never grab them by the tail because they may detach and not grow back.
Crested geckos can be skittish creatures, so always approach them gently without startling them. Give them at least a couple of days to acclimatize to their cage after you bring them home. Avoid handling them in this period. Some owners give them up to two weeks.
Another potential issue for some owners is that these animals are nocturnal. They may be lethargic during the day and cause more noise at night. Consider this before setting up your reptile vivarium or tank. Crested geckos will wag their tails when they feel stressed or in danger. This is a sign to leave them alone.
4. Crested Geckos Need Specialized Living Conditions
Crested geckos are no different from other reptiles in requiring specialized living conditions. Most experts recommend a 12x12x18 tank for adult geckos. This gives them enough space to live comfortably. The height is a crucial factor because these arboreal lizards love climbing. They also feel safer when they’re at a height. Coconut fiber makes a great substrate for these small lizards. Don’t forget to add enrichment materials like loose leaves, stones, and small branches.
The geckos need a constant temperature of 70-78 Fahrenheit (21-26 Celsius). It’s dangerous for its living conditions to go beyond 83F. Humidity is another crucial factor. It should be 65 to 85% to aid the gecko’s natural shedding process. Monitor the temperature and humidity levels by using thermometers and hygrometers.
Some crested gecko owners say they don’t need UVB lighting because they’re nocturnal. But it does improve their health. This is the most complex aspect of caring for crested geckos. However, it’s relatively simple to manage after the initial setup.
5. Crested Geckos Experience Common Health Problems
Parasites are the main problem for crested geckos. However, pet owners can prevent infestations by regularly cleaning their reptiles’ enclosures. Remember: crested geckos can also cause human health problems. They can spread salmonella, so always wash your hands properly after handling them or cleaning their tanks.
Crested geckos can experience common reptile illnesses including substrate impaction and metabolic bone disease. Most conditions occur because of nutrient deficiencies or because of imbalances in their enclosures. It’s vital to manage the heat and humidity levels properly as well as clean regularly. Calcium deficiencies can also occur if geckos don’t get adequate nutrition.
6. Crested Geckos Make Great Starter Reptiles
These geckos are superb pets for beginner reptile owners because they’re relatively low maintenance. Yes, they have specific living conditions; but if owners check their tanks’ temperature and humidity regularly, it’s not a big deal. Feeding them doesn’t require much effort, and they don’t need exercise.
Crested geckos are fascinating creatures that make fulfilling pets for adults and children alike. Just remember that they can live for up to 20 years, so they’re a long-term responsibility!
