Crested Geckos

Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)

Overview

The Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus), also known as the “eyelash gecko” due to the fringed crests above its eyes, is a native of New Caledonia. With their charming personalities, ease of care, and diverse colors and patterns, these small, arboreal geckos have become one of the most popular pet reptiles. Crested Geckos are relatively hardy, require minimal handling, and don’t need specialized heating or lighting, making them ideal for beginners and experienced keepers alike.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adults typically reach about 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) from head to tail.
• Lifespan: In captivity, they can live 15-20 years with proper care.
• Appearance: Crested Geckos are famous for the crests running from above their eyes down to their back, giving them a unique “eyelash” look. They come in various colors and patterns, including reds, oranges, browns, and yellows, with morphs like “harlequin,” “flame,” and “pinstripe” being especially popular.
• Distinctive Features: Crested Geckos lack eyelids, so they lick their eyes to keep them moist. They also have a prehensile tail for climbing, though they can drop their tails when threatened and won’t regrow them.

Housing

• Enclosure: Crested Geckos are arboreal and do best in a vertically oriented enclosure, with a minimum size of 12x12x18 inches (30x30x45 cm) for one adult. However, a larger enclosure provides more enrichment and space to climb. Glass terrariums are a popular choice for retaining humidity.
• Substrate: A substrate that holds moisture, like coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or a bioactive setup with soil, helps maintain humidity levels. Avoid loose substrates like sand, as they pose a risk of impaction.
• Temperature and Humidity: Crested Geckos thrive at room temperature, between 72-78°F (22-26°C), and do not require supplemental heating unless the room drops below 65°F (18°C) at night. Humidity should be kept at 50-70%, with misting in the morning and evening to maintain the levels.
• Lighting: While Crested Geckos don’t require UVB, low-level UVB lighting (5%) can benefit their health and mimic natural light cycles, especially in dimly lit rooms.

Décor and Enrichment

• Climbing Structures: Use a variety of branches, cork bark, and vines to encourage climbing, as these geckos are very active and love exploring their environment. Plants, either live or artificial, provide security and mimic their natural habitat.
• Hides and Humidity: Include multiple hiding spots at various levels to make them feel secure, and use decor that retains moisture to help maintain humidity levels.

Feeding

• Diet: In captivity, Crested Geckos thrive on commercial, nutritionally balanced powdered gecko diets (CGD) mixed with water. This complete diet is ideal for providing essential nutrients. Additionally, they can be offered small insects, like gut-loaded crickets or dubia roaches, as occasional treats.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer fresh CGD every other day for adults and daily for juveniles. Insects can be provided once or twice a week if desired.
• Supplements: While a balanced powdered diet usually meets all their needs, dusting insects with calcium and multivitamin powder can further support health.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Crested Geckos generally tolerate handling well and can become accustomed to gentle handling with patience. Avoid grabbing or restraining them tightly, as they may drop their tail if they feel threatened. Allow them to climb onto your hand and move slowly to avoid startling them.
• Temperament: These geckos have friendly, curious personalities and may even come to the front of the enclosure when they recognize their keeper. However, each individual’s personality can vary, and some may be shyer than others.

Health and Maintenance

• Shedding: Crested Geckos typically shed without issues, but humidity is crucial to prevent shedding problems, especially around the toes. Increase misting if you notice incomplete shedding.
• Common Health Concerns: They are prone to metabolic bone disease (MBD) if not given a proper diet or adequate calcium. Poor humidity levels can also lead to shedding issues and dehydration. Regular observation, correct humidity, and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining good health.

Breeding

• Breeding Season: Crested Geckos typically breed in the spring and summer. Females can lay 1-2 eggs every month during the breeding season.
• Egg Incubation: Eggs can be incubated at room temperature (72-78°F or 22-26°C) and typically hatch after 60-90 days. Females need additional calcium and nutrients to prevent depletion during the breeding season.

Conclusion

The Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is an ideal pet for reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels. With minimal heating and lighting requirements, a manageable size, and a pleasant demeanor, Crested Geckos are low-maintenance yet fascinating to observe and interact with. Their unique appearance and hardiness make them a rewarding pet for years of enjoyment.