If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have a pet reptile, the crested gecko, often called the eyelash gecko, is an excellent choice for beginners. Known for their friendly demeanor and low-maintenance care requirements, these fascinating creatures have become one of the most popular reptiles kept as pets today. But what makes them so special? Let’s dive into the world of cresties, as they are affectionately called, and discover what makes them such a lovable reptile!
What is a Crested Gecko?
The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is a species native to the rainforests of New Caledonia, an island group in the southwest Pacific. These geckos were first discovered in 1866 by French zoologist Alphonse Guichenot, but after a lengthy period of no sightings, they were presumed extinct by the early 1900s. However, fate had a different plan. In 1994, during a tropical storm, a lone crested gecko was found washed ashore, leading to an expedition in 1996 that rediscovered the species.
Thanks to this rediscovery, the crested gecko has since been bred in captivity, making it a popular and easily accessible pet for reptile lovers.
Why “Eyelash Gecko”?
You might be wondering why these geckos are also called eyelash geckos. It’s all thanks to their distinctive feature – the fringed scales above their eyes, which resemble eyelashes. This unique trait not only adds to their charm but also serves a practical purpose in the wild. These “lashes” help protect their eyes from debris and dust, which is common in their natural habitat.
The Fascinating Morphs of Crested Geckos
One of the most exciting things about crested geckos is the variety of color morphs they come in. Morphs refer to different variations in color or pattern within a species, and the crested gecko is no exception. Thanks to selective breeding, enthusiasts have been able to develop a stunning array of morphs that range from strikingly colorful to subtle and elegant.
Here are some popular crested gecko morphs:
Patternless Crested Gecko: These geckos have no distinct patterns or stripes, with common colors ranging from olive and chocolate brown to dark black, yellow, and red.
Bi-Color Crested Gecko: As the name suggests, this morph features two distinct colors, typically one darker and one lighter, without any patterns.
Flame Crested Gecko: With a creamy pattern that rises up their sides, these geckos resemble flames. The contrast between the lighter center and the darker edges makes them a popular morph.
Tiger or Brindle Crested Gecko: Known for their “tiger stripe” patterns along the back, this morph can come in various colors. Extreme tiger patterns are often referred to as brindles.
These morphs give breeders and enthusiasts endless possibilities for creating beautiful, unique animals. Whether you’re after a subtle, muted tone or a gecko with bold colors, there’s likely a morph that suits your preferences.
Crested Gecko Habitat and Care
Crested geckos are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for first-time reptile owners. Here’s how to ensure your crested gecko thrives in captivity:
Setting Up the Terrarium
The terrarium you set up for your crested gecko should replicate its natural tropical environment. A 29-gallon tank is typically enough for 1-3 geckos. Since crested geckos are arboreal (tree-dwelling), they will appreciate a terrarium that’s taller rather than wide, with plenty of vertical space for climbing.
Substrate: Opt for a bio-active substrate (like a mix of soil and coconut fiber) that helps maintain moisture and promotes healthy plant growth. Avoid using loose sand, as it can lead to impaction if ingested.
Decoration: Add branches, rocks, and artificial plants to give your gecko places to hide and climb. Creating a multi-level terrarium adds enrichment and ensures your gecko can express natural behaviors.
Temperature and Humidity
Crested geckos come from a warm, tropical climate, so temperature and humidity play a key role in their well-being:
Daytime temperatures: Keep them between 75-80°F (24-27°C).
Nighttime temperatures: They can drop to 68-75°F (20-24°C).
Humidity: Since these geckos thrive in humid environments, aim to keep the humidity around 50-70%. A misting system or hand misting once or twice a day can help maintain moisture in the tank.
Lighting
While crested geckos don’t need UVB light (since they’re nocturnal), it’s still a good idea to provide a low-wattage bulb to mimic the natural day/night cycle. A 12-hour light cycle will help regulate their circadian rhythm. You can also add a nightlight to simulate moonlight, which will encourage your gecko to come out and explore during the evening.
Diet and Feeding
Feeding your crested gecko is both fun and easy. They are omnivores, meaning their diet consists of both insects and fruits.
Insects:
Crested geckos enjoy a variety of live insects such as:
Crickets
Mealworms
Waxworms
Make sure to feed them gut-loaded insects (insects that have been fed nutritious food before being eaten) to ensure your gecko gets all the nutrients it needs.
Fruits:
They also love fruits, such as:
Bananas
Peaches
Mangoes
Papayas
You can feed them fresh fruits or use commercially available fruit-based diets designed for crested geckos. These pre-made diets provide all the essential vitamins and minerals your gecko needs.
Supplements:
Like many reptiles, crested geckos require calcium and vitamin D3 supplements. Dust your insects with calcium powder 2-3 times a week, and add a multivitamin supplement once a week to keep your gecko healthy.
Health and Common Issues
Although crested geckos are generally hardy, like all pets, they can suffer from a few common health problems:
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3, MBD can lead to deformities and weakness. Ensure your gecko’s diet is well-balanced and that it gets the right supplements.
Impaction: If your gecko eats substrate or hard-to-digest food, it could suffer from impaction. This condition causes constipation and bloating, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Parasites: If your gecko is acting lethargic, losing weight, or has abnormal feces, it could be dealing with a parasitic infection. Regular vet check-ups and purchasing geckos from reputable breeders will help avoid this issue.
Conclusion
Crested geckos, also known as eyelash geckos, are fantastic pets that are easy to care for, especially for beginners. Their gentle nature, stunning variety of morphs, and simple habitat requirements make them a favorite in the reptile community. Whether you’re just starting out or have been a reptile enthusiast for years, the crested gecko is sure to charm its way into your heart.
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