Reference library
Crested Gecko Info Library
440 individual, source-checked answers — one question, one page. Every feeder insect, plant, substrate, supplement, fact, and morph on The Cresty Table gets its own page here so you can jump straight to the exact thing you're asking about.
Care guides
Full care guide guide →In-depth, source-checked crested gecko care guides — enclosure, heating, diet, health, and more.
Crested Gecko Enclosure: What You Actually NeedCrested Gecko Setup Checklist: Everything Before Day OneCrested Gecko Tank Size Guide: By AgeCrested Gecko Heating: Why You Probably Don't Need AnyCrested Gecko UVB: Is It Actually Necessary?Crested Gecko Humidity: Why It Needs to Be HighHow Long Do Crested Geckos Live?Crested Gecko Diet: The Full BreakdownCrested Gecko Feeding Schedule by AgeCrested Gecko Care Sheet: The Full ReferenceCrested Gecko Temperature & Humidity ChartCrested Gecko Substrate: What's Actually SafeCrested Gecko Weight Chart by AgeCrested Gecko Morph Guide: Colours, Patterns & WelfareCrested Gecko Growth Stages ExplainedHow Much Does a Crested Gecko Cost?Crested Gecko Shedding: What's NormalCrested Gecko Behaviour: What They're Telling YouCommon Crested Gecko Diseases & Health ProblemsCrested Gecko Not Eating: Causes & What to DoMale vs Female Crested Gecko: How to TellCrested Gecko Quarantine: Why & How LongCrested Gecko Breeding: The BasicsCrested Gecko Egg Incubation GuideCrested Gecko vs Leopard Gecko: Which Should You Get?Crested Gecko vs Gargoyle Gecko: Key DifferencesCrested Gecko Species: Correlophus ciliatus ExplainedAre Crested Geckos Good Pets?How to Handle a Crested Gecko Without Losing the TailCrested Gecko for Sale: What to Look For Before You BuyCrested Gecko Tail Loss: Why It Never Grows BackCrested Gecko Fired Up vs Fired Down: What It MeansCrested Gecko Diet (CGD) Powdered Food GuideHow Crested Gecko Toe Pads WorkWhy Crested Geckos Jump So MuchWhy Crested Geckos Have No EyelidsCrested Gecko Bioactive Setup GuideBest Live Plants for a Crested Gecko EnclosureCrested Gecko Misting ScheduleCrested Gecko Fogger vs Hand Misting: Which Is Better?Why Is My Crested Gecko Glass Surfing?Crickets vs CGD: Do Crested Geckos Need Live Insects?Crested Gecko Calcium Dusting ScheduleCrested Gecko First Week ChecklistCrested Gecko Enclosure: Vertical vs Horizontal SpaceCrested Gecko Heat Stress: Upper Temperature LimitsCrested Gecko Mouth Rot (Stomatitis)Crested Gecko Mites: Signs & TreatmentCrested Gecko Impaction: Symptoms & PreventionMetabolic Bone Disease in Crested GeckosCrested Gecko Poop Guide: What's NormalCrested Gecko Taming TimelineHow Much Does a Crested Gecko Vet Visit Cost?How to Find an Exotic Vet for a Crested GeckoCrested Gecko Escape-Proofing ChecklistCan Crested Geckos Live Together?Gut-Loading Feeder Insects for Crested GeckosSenior Crested Gecko Care GuideCrested Gecko Water & Hydration GuidePreventing Mold in a Crested Gecko EnclosureCrested Gecko Enclosure Ventilation & AirflowCrested Gecko Feeding Ledge: Placement TipsCrested Gecko Diet (CGD) Flavors: Do They Matter?Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) Mixing Ratio GuideCrested Gecko Free-Fed vs Scheduled FeedingCrested Gecko Overfeeding & Obesity SignsCrested Gecko Underweight: Signs to Watch ForCrested Gecko Body Condition Score GuideTail-Less Crested Gecko: Pros & ConsCrested Gecko Pattern Types ExplainedCrested Gecko Color Morph Genetics BasicsCrested Gecko Breeding Age & Weight RequirementsCrested Gecko Clutch Size & Laying FrequencyCrested Gecko Egg-Laying Box SetupCrested Gecko Incubation Substrate OptionsCrested Gecko Hatchling Care: The First Few WeeksCrested Gecko Sexing: How to Tell at Different AgesCrested Gecko Vocalizations: Barking & Chirping ExplainedCrested Gecko Licking Behaviour ExplainedCrested Gecko Head Bobbing: What It MeansCrested Gecko Stress Signs: What to Watch ForCrested Gecko Digging BehaviourDo Crested Geckos Need a Basking Spot?Crested Gecko Ambient Room Temperature ToleranceCrested Gecko Cool-Down Period (Breeding Rest)Crested Gecko Enclosure Humidity Cycle: Day vs NightCrested Gecko Automatic Misting System GuideCrested Gecko Cleanup Crew: Isopods & SpringtailsCrested Gecko Substrate Depth GuideCrested Gecko Background & Vine Setup IdeasCrested Gecko Enclosure Size for Adults: 18x18x24 ExplainedCrested Gecko Juvenile to Adult Enclosure Upgrade TimingCrested Gecko Vet Costs BreakdownCrested Gecko Fecal Exam: Why & How OftenCrested Gecko Parasites: Common TypesCrested Gecko Prolapse: What It IsCrested Gecko Egg Binding (Dystocia): Signs & RiskCrested Gecko Dehydration SignsCrested Gecko Skin Fold: Normal Aging or a Concern?Crested Gecko Tail Stub: What to Expect After Tail LossGut-Loading Crickets for Crested GeckosFruit Flies & Pinhead Crickets for Juvenile Crested GeckosCrested Gecko Overweight Tail: Is It a Concern?Crested Gecko Legal Status & CITESCrested Gecko Breeders vs Pet Stores: What to Look ForCrested Gecko New Caledonia Origin & Wild HistoryCrested Gecko Conservation Status (Once Thought Extinct)Crested Gecko Lifespan Factors: What Affects LongevityMultiple Crested Geckos in One Enclosure: RisksRehoming a Crested Gecko: Checklist
Feeder insects
Full feeder insect guide →Every feeder insect covered on the site, one question at a time.
Can Crested Geckos Eat Complete Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) — fruit/insect blend?Can Crested Geckos Eat Repashy Crested Gecko Diet (MRP)?Can Crested Geckos Eat Dubia Roaches?Can Crested Geckos Eat Crickets?Can Crested Geckos Eat Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Phoenix Worm)?Can Crested Geckos Eat Mango (small pieces, occasional)?Can Crested Geckos Eat Papaya (small pieces, occasional)?Can Crested Geckos Eat Superworms?Can Crested Geckos Eat Mealworms?Can Crested Geckos Eat Waxworms?Can Crested Geckos Eat Citrus fruits?Can Crested Geckos Eat Avocado?Can Crested Geckos Eat Fireflies / Lightning Bugs?Can Crested Geckos Eat Wild-caught insects?
Plants
Full plant guide →Enclosure plant safety ratings for crested geckos.
Is Pothos Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Pothos alternative: Philodendron hederaceum Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Creeping Fig Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Pothos alternative note Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Bromeliads Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Orchids (Phalaenopsis and similar epiphytic types) Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Pothos alternative: Nephthytis / Arrowhead Vine Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Pilea Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Peace Lily Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Ivy (all species) Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Oleander Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Sago Palm Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Euphorbia species (Pencil Cactus, African Milk Tree, etc.) Safe for Crested Geckos?Is Cork bark and grapevine (non-plant, but essential decor) Safe for Crested Geckos?
Gut-load foods
Full gut-load food guide →What to feed your feeder insects before you feed them to your gecko.
Collard greens for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsSweet potato for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsCarrot (in moderation) for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsOats / rolled oats for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsApple (seedless) for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsSpinach for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsCitrus fruits for Gut-Loading Feeder InsectsAvocado for Gut-Loading Feeder Insects
Substrates
Full substrate guide →Every substrate option, rated for impaction risk and safety.
Is Coconut fibre (eco earth) + sphagnum moss topper a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Paper towel a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Sphagnum moss (as primary layer) a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Reptile carpet a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Loose substrate for hatchlings feeding on crickets a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Sand a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Walnut shell a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?Is Cedar or pine shavings a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?
Supplements
Full supplement guide →How and when to use each crested gecko supplement.
Facts
Full fact guide →Crested gecko facts, myths, and biology explained individually.
Crested geckos were believed extinct until being rediscovered in 1994Crested geckos CAN drop their tail, but unlike leopard geckos, it does NOT grow backCrested geckos have no eyelids and lick their own eyes cleanCrested geckos have sticky toe pads and can climb glass with easeThe namesake 'crest' is a row of spiky projections above the eyes and along the spineCrested geckos commonly live 15–20 years in captivityCrested geckos are highly arboreal and spend nearly all their time off the groundCrested geckos are nocturnal — expect activity in the evening, not the dayCrested geckos are excellent jumpers and skilled escape artistsA dropped tail is usually a stress or handling-related event, not randomA complete powdered diet (CGD) can be the entire diet — insects are optionalMost homes don't need a dedicated heat source for this speciesThis species needs genuinely high humidity — roughly 50–80%, not lowLow-level UVB is increasingly recommended, though not strictly mandatoryReduced appetite around shedding and after tail loss is normal and temporaryThe Lilly White morph carries a documented welfare concernMetabolic Bone Disease is preventable with a properly formulated dietCrested geckos were reclassified from the genus Rhacodactylus into the genus Correlophus in 2012Crested geckos are endemic to the southern part of the New Caledonia archipelago in the South PacificCrested geckos are assessed as vulnerable in the wild, largely due to habitat loss and predation by invasive speciesCrested geckos use their tongue to lick and clean their own eyes since they have no eyelidsThe prominence of a crested gecko's namesake 'crest' varies naturally between individuals and isn't tied to a specific morphA powdered complete crested gecko diet (CGD) mixed with water is typically offered 2–3 times a week for adults and more often for juvenilesLive insects are optional enrichment for crested geckos on a complete powdered diet, not a nutritional requirementCrested geckos are strong jumpers that use momentum to leap between branches rather than glidingCrested gecko skin is notably delicate and can tear if the gecko is grabbed or restrained roughlyCrested geckos can noticeably change colour and brightness, a behaviour keepers call 'firing up' and 'firing down'Crested Gecko Stress Syndrome (sometimes called 'floppy tail syndrome') can occur from overheating or acute stressCrested geckos commonly stop eating once ambient temperatures climb above roughly 82°F (28°C)Crested geckos are arboreal and generally need more vertical height than floor space in their enclosureCrested geckos have setae-covered toe pads that let them climb glass and other smooth surfacesAn intact crested gecko tail is prehensile and functions almost like a fifth limb for gripping branchesCrested gecko enclosures are typically misted once or twice daily to maintain humidity in the 60–80% range with a dry-out period between mistingsCrested geckos are considered one of the more beginner-friendly species for a bioactive, live-planted enclosureCrested geckos generally reach adult size, roughly 35–50 grams, within about 12–18 monthsCrested geckos are accomplished climbers and jumpers, so a secure, tightly fitted screen lid is essentialCrested geckos have proportionally large eyes adapted for low-light, nocturnal visionMashed or pureed fruit like banana or mango can be offered occasionally as a treat but isn't nutritionally complete on its ownCitrus fruits are generally avoided for crested geckos due to their high acidityBecause crested geckos are nocturnal, brief evening handling sessions tend to cause less stress than daytime handlingAfter tail loss, the stump heals over completely and most crested geckos adapt well to life without a tail long termA crested gecko's toe pad grip can temporarily weaken if substrate or debris builds up on the setae, but this resolves at the next shedCrested geckos typically shed roughly every 4–6 weeks, with juveniles shedding more frequently than adultsMost crested gecko colour and pattern morphs, such as harlequin, pinstripe, and dalmatian, are line-bred traits rather than simple single-gene mutationsThe 'dalmatian' trait in crested geckos produces scattered dark spotting across an otherwise base-coloured bodyWell-cared-for crested geckos commonly live 15–20 years in captivityRough handling or acute stress, not just predator attacks, is the most common trigger for tail loss in pet crested geckosCrested gecko hatchlings are fully independent from birth with no parental careCaptive crested gecko breeding activity is often linked to seasonal photoperiod changes, roughly October through February in most captive setupsCrested geckos aren't currently listed under CITES, but wild collection and export from New Caledonia is heavily restrictedCrested geckos can often be kept at a stable room temperature of roughly 72–78°F without any dedicated heat sourceA cleanup crew of springtails and isopods in a bioactive crested gecko enclosure helps break down waste and reduces manual cleaningCrested geckos rarely vocalise, communicating mostly through posture, colour, and movementLike most gecko species other than leopard geckos, crested geckos have a fixed transparent scale called a brille covering the eye instead of a moveable eyelidCrested geckos typically eat their own shed skin shortly after shedding, just like many other gecko speciesCrested geckos don't require a deliberate cooling or brumation period to breed successfully in captivityCrested geckos can also lose small patches of skin from rough handling elsewhere on the body, not just the tailCrested geckos often prefer drinking water droplets off leaves or enclosure surfaces after misting rather than a standing water bowlPothos and bromeliads are popular safe live plant choices for crested gecko enclosuresA breeding female crested gecko typically lays a pair of eggs roughly every 4–6 weeks throughout the breeding seasonCrested geckos are usually sexed visually once they reach roughly 15–20 grams, when pore bulges become distinguishableCrested geckos tend to be more skittish than leopard geckos and often jump away when startled during handlingAn erratic tail-waving or flipping motion in a crested gecko can be a defensive or agitated response, distinct from calm tail curling while restingLike most reptiles, crested geckos should never be fed avocadoCrested geckos are sometimes redundantly called 'New Caledonian crested geckos,' even though every crested gecko is from New Caledonia by definitionCrested geckos grip surfaces mainly through adhesive toe pads rather than claws, unlike leopard geckos which rely on conventional clawsA female crested gecko can store sperm and continue producing fertile clutches for some time after a single matingThe fringed crest is thought to aid camouflage rather than help with climbingDorsal pattern variation is roughly as individual as a fingerprintCrested gecko toepads combine branched setae with small clawsAdult crested geckos typically weigh 35-55 gramsYoung hatchlings often show slightly translucent skin over the bellyCrested geckos lack a visible parietal ("third") eyeA crested gecko's short, broad snout suits lapping soft food over tearing preyCrested geckos use their tongue both to sample scent and to lap up foodHatchlings emerge at roughly 2-2.5 inches long and just over a gramCrested geckos have a narrower comfortable temperature range than many popular pet reptilesA taller-than-wide enclosure suits crested geckos better than a long, low footprintFans or a cooler room can help keep temperatures from exceeding the mid-80s°F when no heat source is usedDense foliage gives a naturally shy species places to feel secureCork bark rounds, flats, and horizontal ledges mimic natural branch structureFood and calcium dishes are often mounted on a ledge partway up the enclosureA substrate that holds some moisture helps maintain humidity between mistingsHatchlings are often raised in smaller, simpler enclosures before a full vivariumA glass enclosure in direct sun or a hot room can overheat quicklyA roughly 12-hour light and dark cycle supports natural nocturnal rhythmNew crested geckos should be quarantined separately for several weeks before introductionBoth glass and mesh/screen enclosures are used successfully for crested geckosBioactive vivariums rely more on a cleanup crew, while simple tubs need more manual cleaningFloppy tail syndrome causes the tail to flop to one side on a vertical surfaceCrested geckos can develop impaction from loose substrate, though the risk is generally lower than in ground-dwelling speciesRetained shed around the toes or tail tip can restrict circulationSudden appetite loss combined with weight loss is a recognised syndrome in the speciesWheezing, nasal mucus, or open-mouth breathing can signal a respiratory infectionSunken eyes and reduced skin elasticity are common visible signs of dehydrationA fecal exam during quarantine is the standard way to catch internal parasites earlyOverly generous feeding of calorie-dense commercial diets or fruit can lead to obesityTail loss itself isn't usually a medical emergency but the stump needs monitoringDebris around the eye can be harder to notice given the lack of movable eyelidsA periodic wellness check benefits even a seemingly healthy crested geckoRegularly weighing a crested gecko on a gram scale helps catch early weight lossCrested geckos typically lay clutches of two eggs at a timeEggs are commonly incubated at stable room temperature rather than in a dedicated incubatorCrested gecko sex is primarily genetic rather than strongly temperature-dependentEggs typically take roughly 60-150 days to hatch depending on temperatureFemales are generally not bred until reaching a healthy adult weight, commonly cited around 35 grams or moreA dedicated lay box with several inches of moist, diggable substrate supports safe egg-layingA healthy breeding female may lay a clutch every two to four weeks through the seasonHatchlings typically take their first shed within about a week of hatchingBreeding pairs are usually introduced only for supervised periods rather than cohabited long-termCandling eggs a couple of weeks after laying can reveal whether they're developingA startled crested gecko may freeze in place before jumping awayA crested gecko may tilt its head to observe a keeper's movementA slow tail curl or wave is mainly used as a balance and stability aid while climbingGroup housing carries more risk for adults and unequally sized juveniles than for same-sized hatchlingsIndividual tolerance for handling varies widely between crested geckosActivity typically peaks in the few hours after darkCrested geckos were reclassified from the genus Rhacodactylus into their own genus, Correlophus, in 2012Unlike a lost tail, damaged toe pad lamellae in crested geckos take time and repeated sheds to fully recover their climbing gripA crested gecko's original tail, if never dropped, aids balance and grip while climbing and jumpingCrested geckos can produce audible chirps or barks, most often when startled, during territorial disputes, or occasionally during feeding excitementPlacing a feeding dish partway up the enclosure, rather than on the floor, matches the arboreal foraging habits of crested geckos betterCrested geckos are considerably more heat-sensitive than many other pet reptiles, and prolonged exposure above roughly 82-85°F (28-29°C) can be dangerousMany keepers in climate-controlled homes do not provide any supplemental heating for crested geckos, since normal room temperature often falls within their preferred rangeIn the wild, crested geckos eat a mix of ripe fruit, nectar, pollen, and small invertebrates, which is reflected in the fruit-based commercial diets used in captivityThe development of complete powdered crested gecko diets in the early 2000s significantly simplified captive care compared to earlier fruit-and-insect-only feeding approachesStatic buildup on glass enclosure walls can occasionally cause loose substrate particles to cling to a crested gecko's toe padsThe colour change seen when a crested gecko 'fires up' or 'fires down' is a mood and temperature-linked response, not full active camouflage matching to background colourCrested geckos can jump distances several times their own body length between branches or perchesMany keepers aim for a daily humidity cycle rather than constant high humidity — misting to raise humidity in the evening, then allowing it to drop somewhat by the following dayA single female crested gecko can lay numerous clutches across a breeding season if conditions and calcium intake support itCrested geckos are considered more prone to tail loss under stress than some other common pet gecko species, partly due to their generally more flighty temperamentA bioactive crested gecko setup typically uses several inches of substrate depth to properly support live plants and a cleanup crewEven though crested geckos can be kept successfully without UVB, low-level UVB is increasingly offered as a general wellness benefit rather than a strict requirementCrested geckos are accomplished escape artists capable of squeezing through surprisingly small gaps around vents, doors, or cable entry pointsJuvenile crested geckos are commonly fed daily to every other day, while adults are often shifted to an every-other-day to every-third-day scheduleThe wound left after a crested gecko drops its tail typically closes and scars over within roughly one to two weeks without requiring special treatment beyond a clean environmentJuvenile crested gecko skin is notably delicate and can tear more easily than adult skin during rough handling or enclosure snagsIn their native New Caledonian forests, crested geckos primarily occupy the mid-to-upper canopy layer rather than the forest floorIt's common for a crested gecko to jump off a keeper's hand mid-handling session, which is a normal exploratory or escape behaviour rather than aggressionWhen live insects are offered as a supplement to a complete powdered diet, they are typically dusted with calcium just as with insectivorous gecko speciesGrowth rate to adult size can vary noticeably between individual crested geckos and breeding lines, not just with feeding scheduleCertain high-white morphs, particularly lilies and extreme pattern-less lines, are associated with a higher reported incidence of eye-related issues in some breeding linesProviding a mix of both smooth and rough-textured climbing surfaces gives a more complete picture of a crested gecko's grip and toe pad condition during observationA sudden drop in appetite in an otherwise normal-looking crested gecko is often linked to incorrect temperature, particularly overheating, before other causes are consideredComplete powdered crested gecko diets are generally mixed to a specific water ratio recommended by the manufacturer to achieve the right consistency and shelf stability once offeredUneaten fresh or mixed powdered food is generally removed from the enclosure within roughly 24 hours to prevent mould and bacterial growthHead bobbing and slow approach behaviour can appear during courtship interactions between a male and receptive female crested geckoAfter a tail drop heals, the resulting stump typically appears as a small, rounded, permanently scarred nub rather than a smooth, unmarked surfaceA reliable digital hygrometer, rather than judging humidity by feel or by how the substrate looks, gives a more accurate picture of enclosure conditionsFemale crested geckos typically bury their eggs a modest distance into a moist substrate laying container rather than depositing them on the surfaceCrested geckos became one of the most popular pet gecko species in the hobby following their rediscovery in the wild in 1994, after having been considered possibly extinctCrested gecko enclosures generally need a much narrower temperature gradient than many other reptile setups, since the species doesn't require a hot basking zoneAutomated misting systems are commonly used in crested gecko care to maintain consistent humidity cycles without requiring manual misting multiple times a dayVery fine or sticky substrate particles can occasionally clump on toe pads and temporarily reduce grip until removed during the next shed or gentle cleaningMany crested geckos can be trained to reliably take food from feeding tongs, which makes portion monitoring and medication administration considerably easierBranch and vine diameter suited to a crested gecko's grip is generally proportional to the animal's body size, with a range of thicknesses offered for the best mobilityHousing crested geckos of noticeably different sizes together carries a real risk of the larger animal injuring or attempting to eat the smaller oneConsistent, stable incubation temperature matters more for even hatch timing and healthy hatchlings than hitting one single exact numberCrested gecko hatchlings typically take their first shed shortly after hatching and begin eating on their own within roughly the first week or twoThe common name 'crested gecko' and the species epithet 'ciliatus' both reference the fringe of soft, spine-like projections above the eyes and along the bodyA crested gecko experiencing heat stress may become unusually active, restless, or seek out the coolest available surface, such as the enclosure floor or glass, rather than its normal perchesA standing water dish in a warm, humid crested gecko enclosure can develop bacterial growth relatively quickly if not changed regularlyLike many gecko species, crested geckos routinely eat their own shed skin shortly after it comes offFront-opening glass terrariums and mesh-topped enclosures are both commonly used for crested geckos, each with different humidity retention and ventilation trade-offsA quick daily visual check of a crested gecko's eyes, vent area, toes, and overall alertness can help catch developing problems earlier than only weighing periodicallyTail loss in crested geckos is permanent species-wide, unlike some other popular pet gecko species that can regrow a new tailThe crested gecko was formally described by naturalist Alphonse Guichenot in 1866The crested gecko's closest relative in the pet trade is the gargoyle gecko, also native to New CaledoniaNew Caledonia is recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot with an unusually high proportion of endemic reptilesInvasive species, particularly rats and fire ants, are a documented threat to wild crested gecko populationsEach toe pad seta on a crested gecko's foot branches into hundreds of even finer microscopic structuresCrested geckos, like many gecko species, lack a kneecap (patella)Complete powdered crested gecko diets were popularised in the early 2000s, with Repashy Superfoods among the best-known brandsIn addition to fruit and nectar, wild crested geckos opportunistically eat small invertebrates and occasionally tiny vertebratesProlonged temperatures below roughly 60°F (15°C) can cause lethargy and appetite loss in crested geckosHousing a male and female crested gecko together long-term leads to near-constant breeding, which is taxing on the femaleAdult male crested geckos are identified partly by a row of precloacal pores just above the vent, not pores running down the thighSome crested gecko hatchlings show a different colour intensity or pattern clarity than they will display as adultsCrested geckos can often be visually sexed well before they're old enough to breed responsiblyCross-ventilation in a crested gecko enclosure helps prevent mould and bacterial growth despite the species' high humidity needsBecause crested geckos are arboreal, their waste is often deposited on leaves and branches rather than concentrated on the enclosure floorNew Caledonia has prohibited the export of wild crested geckos since shortly after their 1994 rediscoveryA dropped crested gecko can be injured from a fall, particularly onto a hard floorComplete powdered crested gecko diets typically combine fruit, plant protein or insect-derived protein, and added vitamins and mineralsFeeding frequency and portion size directly influence how quickly a juvenile crested gecko reaches adult sizeField surveys of wild and newly imported crested geckos have historically found a high proportion of animals missing all or part of their tailGargoyle geckos are distinguished from crested geckos by bony head projections and a fully prehensile, regenerating tailCrested geckos are thought to play a minor pollination and seed-dispersal role in their native New Caledonian forest habitatCrested geckos often rest flattened against a branch or leaf during the day, aiding camouflageArtificial plants can provide effective cover and climbing structure for a crested gecko enclosure, not only live onesWhile 15-20 years is typical, some well-cared-for crested geckos have reportedly lived into their mid-20sSome complete powdered diet brands offer separate hatchling/juvenile and adult formulas with different protein levelsHatchling crested geckos have toe pads that are proportionally large relative to their tiny body sizeIn group or colony housing, uneven access to food and favoured basking or resting spots can create hidden stress even among same-sized geckosModern complete powdered crested gecko diets were developed partly using stomach content and nutritional analysis of wild-collected specimensBecause crested geckos have no moveable eyelids, debris or shed skin around the eye can be harder to spot than in species that blinkCrested geckos can jump distances several times their own body length between branches or perchesMany keepers mist a crested gecko enclosure to raise humidity in the evening, then allow it to dry down somewhat by the next dayA single well-conditioned female crested gecko can lay numerous clutches across one breeding season if calcium intake and conditions support itCrested geckos are generally considered more flighty and prone to jumping away than some other common pet gecko speciesA bioactive crested gecko setup typically uses several inches of substrate depth to properly support live plant roots and a cleanup crewEven though crested geckos can be kept successfully without UVB, low-level UVB is increasingly offered as a general wellness measureCrested geckos are capable of squeezing through surprisingly small gaps around vents, doors, or cable entry pointsJuvenile crested geckos are commonly fed daily to every other day, while adults are often shifted to an every-other-day to every-third-day scheduleThe wound left after a crested gecko drops its tail typically closes and scars over within roughly one to two weeksJuvenile crested gecko skin is notably delicate and can tear more easily than adult skin during rough handling or enclosure snagsIn their native New Caledonian forests, crested geckos primarily occupy the mid-to-upper canopy layer rather than the forest floorWhen live insects are offered as a supplement to a complete powdered diet, they're typically dusted with calcium just as with insectivorous gecko speciesCertain high-white morphs, particularly Lilly White and extreme patternless lines, are associated with a higher reported incidence of eye-related issues in some breeding linesSome keepers provide a small water dish in addition to regular misting, though many crested geckos drink primarily from dropletsAutomated misting systems are commonly used in crested gecko care to maintain consistent humidity cycles without manual intervention several times a dayMany crested geckos can be trained to reliably take food from feeding tongsBranch and vine diameter suited to a crested gecko's grip is generally proportional to the animal's body sizeHousing crested geckos of noticeably different sizes together carries a real risk of the larger animal injuring or attempting to eat the smaller oneA quick daily visual check of a crested gecko's eyes, vent area, toes, and overall alertness can help catch developing problems earlier than periodic weighing aloneUneaten fresh or mixed powdered food is generally removed from the enclosure within roughly 24 hours to prevent mould and bacterial growthComplete crested gecko diet powders are formulated to include fruit, protein, calcium and vitamins in one productCrested geckos will occasionally come down to ground level, even though they are predominantly arborealCrested geckos are considered more prone to dropping their tail under stress than several other common pet gecko speciesFeeding ledges and dishes need regular cleaning since spilled CGD can mold quickly in a warm, humid enclosureA daily humidity cycle that drops somewhat during the day and rises with evening misting more closely matches a crested gecko's natural rainforest rhythmCrested geckos tolerate a narrower comfortable temperature range than many other popular pet reptilesCrested geckos can launch into a jump from a standing start without a running approachLily white and other extreme-white crested gecko morphs are associated with increased calcium and shedding difficulties beyond the general welfare concern already known for the traitA dedicated lay box for crested geckos typically needs several inches of moist, diggable substrateFiring up (brightening) is influenced partly by temperature and activity level, not purely moodBranches and vines with varied diameters give a crested gecko more secure grip options than uniform, overly thick or thin perchesBecause crested geckos lack eyelids, some keepers periodically check for debris stuck near the eye, especially after substrate changesCrested geckos were moved from Rhacodactylus into the newly created genus Correlophus in 2012 based on genetic and morphological researchFlightless fruit flies are a commonly offered live insect supplement for crested geckos alongside a complete powdered dietThe healed stub left after a crested gecko drops its tail is permanent and doesn't develop any new tissueOverly wet substrate combined with poor ventilation is a common cause of mold problems in crested gecko enclosuresStatic electricity on glass enclosure walls has occasionally been linked to minor skin or shed issues in sensitive individualsFiring up or down in a crested gecko can happen within minutes rather than gradually over hoursA single mating can fertilize several consecutive clutches over subsequent months due to sperm storageBreeders commonly wait until a female reaches at least 35 grams and full skeletal maturity before pairing her for breedingA hygrometer placed at gecko level, rather than near the top vents of the enclosure, gives a more accurate humidity readingCoco fiber-based substrates, sometimes blended with sphagnum moss or leaf litter, are among the most common substrate choices for crested geckosCrested geckos, like several other gecko species, may rub their vent area on surfaces to leave scent marksNew crested geckos are commonly quarantined for a minimum of 30-60 days before being introduced near an existing collectionWhen UVB is used for crested geckos, a low-output bulb such as a 5% linear tube is the typical recommendationDamage to a crested gecko's toe pad lamellae, unlike a lost tail, heals slowly and doesn't fully regenerate the original adhesive structureHandling is often minimized for a day or two right after a shed while new skin fully setsSeasonal changes in daylight length are thought to help trigger breeding readiness in captive crested geckosCrested Gecko Stress Syndrome symptoms can include weight loss, lethargy, and reduced interest in food without an obvious causeFull substrate changes are typically done on a longer cycle than daily spot cleaning, often every 1-3 months depending on setupCrested geckos typically get most of their drinking water from misted droplets rather than a still water dishThe complete absence of tail regrowth in crested geckos contrasts with several other gecko species, including leopard and mourning geckos, that do regenerate a tailBoth natural wood (cork bark, grapevine) and artificial vines are commonly used and accepted for crested gecko climbing furnitureGrowth rate to adult size can vary by several months between individual hatchlings even under identical careHousing crested geckos of noticeably different sizes together carries a real risk of the larger gecko injuring or attempting to eat the smaller oneVent-dragging scent-marking behavior can increase temporarily after introducing a new gecko or rearranging enclosure decorCrested gecko eggs are typically candled a week or two after laying to check for developing blood vesselsLightly misting enclosure walls can help reduce static buildup that occasionally affects loose, sensitive shed skinAdult crested geckos are commonly fed a complete powdered diet every other day to every third day, while juveniles are often fed dailyFurnishing an enclosure with climbing surfaces at multiple heights, not just near the top, encourages a crested gecko to use the whole vertical spaceA fecal exam during the quarantine period is the standard method for screening a new crested gecko for internal parasitesBioactive crested gecko setups commonly use at least 3-4 inches of substrate to support live plant roots and a cleanup crewCommon crested gecko pattern terms like pinstripe, harlequin, and dalmatian describe visual traits rather than strict genetic categories in most casesShort handling sessions of a few minutes are generally better tolerated by crested geckos than extended handlingBioactive crested gecko setups typically include a drainage layer beneath the substrate to prevent waterlogging at the rootsFinding a reptile-experienced veterinarian before an emergency arises is particularly relevant for crested geckos given their relatively fast-progressing stress-related conditionsCrested geckos in their native range are found across a range of forest elevations, not just lowland habitatSimpler substrates like paper towel are sometimes used for young juveniles before transitioning to a full bioactive setupEnclosures housing more than one crested gecko generally need proportionally more vertical climbing space and hides, not just a bigger footprintA new crested gecko commonly stays hidden and eats little for the first one to two weeks after a move
Morphs
Full morph guide →Crested gecko colour morphs — genetics, prevalence, and welfare notes.
Standard / Normal Crested GeckoPinstripe Crested GeckoHarlequin Crested GeckoExtreme Harlequin Crested GeckoDalmatian Crested GeckoFlame Crested GeckoTiger Crested GeckoBrindle Crested GeckoLilly White Crested Gecko (Lily White)Tricolor Crested GeckoPhantom Pinstripe Crested GeckoMoonglow Crested GeckoCreamsicle Crested GeckoRed / Orange Base Crested GeckoAxanthic Crested GeckoPatternless / Solid Crested Gecko