Crested Geckos

The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is a semi-arboreal lizard native to Southern New Caledonia, a group of islands off the coast of Australia. Once thought to be extinct, the species was rediscovered in 1994 and has since become one of the most popular reptile pets worldwide due to its low-maintenance care requirements, docile temperament, and striking appearance. Appearance and Physical Features * "Eyelashes": Their defining feature is a row of hair-like projections extending over their eyes and down along the sides of their heads, giving them their nickname, the "eyelash gecko." * Eyes: They lack eyelids and instead have a transparent scale called a spectacle covering each eye. They use their long tongues to lick their eyes clean and keep them moist. * Prehensile Tail & Adhesive Pads: Crested geckos possess specialized toe pads covered in microscopic hairs called setae, allowing them to effortlessly climb smooth vertical surfaces like glass. Their tail is prehensile and assists with balance and gripping branches. * Size: Adults typically reach 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23 cm) in total length, including the tail, and weigh between 35 and 55 grams. Diet and Behavior * Omnivorous Diet: In the wild, they feed on a combination of fruit nectar, fallen fruits, pollen, and small insects. In captivity, they thrive on commercially prepared powder diets mixed with water, supplemented occasionally with live insects like crickets or dubia roaches. * Nocturnal Nature: Crested geckos are primarily active at night or during twilight hours (crepuscular). They spend most of the daytime hiding in foliage or hollow cork bark. * Tail Autotomy: If threatened, startled, or grabbed by the tail, a crested gecko can drop its tail (autotomy) to distract predators. Unlike many other gecko species, crested geckos cannot regenerate a lost tail, resulting in what keepers affectionately call a "frog butt" gecko. Temperament and Pet Care * Docile Nature: Generally calm and easy to handle, though juveniles can be jumpy. * Room Temperature Requirements: They prefer moderate temperatures between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25°C) and can suffer heat stress if exposed to temperatures above 85°F (29°C) for extended periods. * Humidity Needs: They require an environment with ambient humidity around 60–80%, typically achieved by misting their enclosure daily. Would you like specific details on setting up a crested gecko terrarium or advice on feeding schedules?