Crested Gecko

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Crested Gecko

Common Name: Crested Gecko/Eyelash Gecko
Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus
Lifespan: 15-20+ years
Size: 5-8 inches

Introduction:

The Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is an arboreal gecko native to southern New Caledonia. The name “Crested Gecko” and “Eyelash Gecko” comes from the crest of skin that resembles eyelashes. Crested Geckos are tree dwellers which make them perfect for naturalistic vivariums and bioactive terrariums.

Environment

Tropical

Light

Optional

Temperature

70-82°F

Humidity

60-70%

Most Active

Crepuscular

Lifespan

15-20 years

Size:

Crested Geckos hatch out at approximately 2-3 inches inches in length. Adults reach around 4-5 inches from snout-to-vent and about 8 inches including the tail.

Lifespan:

In captivity, with proper care, Crested Geckos can live 15-20 years or more.

Enclosure:

When designing your Crested Gecko’s enclosure make sure to remember that they are native to tropical, humid regions. Hatchlings can be kept in large plastic tubs or 10 gallon tanks. Adults can be housed in 20 gallon tanks  or 18”L x 18”W x 18”H tanks.

Temperature & Humidity:

Crested Geckos thrive in room temperature settings. During the day temperatures can reach 78-82 and drop to the low 70s at night. Remember to always allow a temperature gradient so your gecko can choose the area most comfortable for themselves. Humidity should be kept around 60-70 percent and increased during shedding. 

Be sure to mist your gecko’s cage 1-2 times a day or as needed to keep the proper humidity. Furthermore, Crested Geckos tend to prefer to drink water from leaves that have been misted rather than a traditional water dish. 

Another great way to help control and maintain humidity during shedding and make your Crested Gecko’s enclosure more natural is with Mosses. Golden Sphagnum Moss, Green Sphagnum Moss, Royal Pillow Moss, Sheet Moss, and Pillow Moss are all excellent at storing and maintaining humidity to ensure a clean, perfect shed. Remarkably, Crested Geckos eat their shed so do not be alarmed if you cannot locate a shed.

Substrate:

Paper towels and terrarium liners are good substrate options for those that want something easy to change, but be sure to keep a close eye on temperature and humidity as these options don’t hold up as well as other substrates. Cypress Mulch, Orchid/Fir Bark, Coconut Soil, and Coco Husk are great naturalistic substrate options that help maintain and control humidity. No matter what substrate you decide to use make sure to keep an eye on humidity as too much or too little can cause problems.

Hides:

Providing a safe hiding place for your Crested Gecko is extremely important to the overall health of your reptile. Crested Geckos need a secure, dark cave or hide that they can retreat to in order to reduce stress and feel safe. They should have an arboreal and terrestrial hide, as well as a large amount of foliage to hide in. 

There are a variety of hides and foliage available on the market that can be used to accomplish these secure hiding places (Sapa and Moss Domes are popular naturalistic options and are made of moss to help with humidity). The plants and leaves that make up the foliage can be fake or live depending on your personal preference.

Lighting:

Lighting is not necessary but can be used if desired. However, only use lightning up to 12 hours a day as too much lighting can be stressful.

Feeding:

Crested Gecko’s unique diet has been a huge part of their rise in popularity. Crested Geckos thrive on complete fruit powder diets (Pangea and Repashy are the most recommended brands). These powder diets reduce or even eliminate the need to feed live insects. Dubia Roaches, Crickets, and Mealworms can still be fed on occasion, especially with growing babies and breeding adults.

Change the Crested Gecko’s food every 1-2 days to avoid mold and bacteria growth. Most powder diets recommend 2 parts water 1 part powder with the consistency and thickness of a fruit smoothie.

Water:

Although Crested Geckos primarily drink from water that has pooled on leaves from misting, always provide fresh, clean water just in case.

Decor:

After the necessities, Crested Gecko enclosures can have any variety of decor that help to add enrichment. Spider Wood, Manzanita, and Driftwood are popular climbing implements that provide a different texture and aid in shedding. Natural Stones and Mosses are also a great addition for general stimulation and enrichment with the added benefit of a naturalistic look.

Interesting Facts:

  • The species name, ciliatus, is Latin from cilia, which means “fringe” or “eyelashes”. 
  • Crested Geckos were thought to be extinct until they were rediscovered in 1994 during an expedition led by Robert Seipp.
  • Crested Geckos possess a semi-prehensile tail which helps them climb. This tail can be dropped to avoid predators but does not grow back like many other gecko species.
  • Small hairs called setae, line the toes and tip of the Crested Gecko tail. These hairs help the geckos hang onto vertical structures and climb glass in captivity. 
  • Although crested geckos have “eyelashes” they do not have eyelids. A small transparent scale, known as a spectacle, keeps each eye moist. Geckos use their tongues to wipe away debris.