🌿 Introduction
Thinking about getting a Crested Gecko as your first reptile pet? Great choice!
Crested Geckos (Correlophus ciliatus) are one of the best beginner reptiles thanks to their calm nature, simple care needs, and adorable “eyelash” look.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What Crested Geckos need to thrive
- How to set up their habitat
- What to feed them
- Common mistakes to avoid
📦 Supplies Checklist
Before bringing your gecko home, make sure you have:
✅ Vertical terrarium (20+ gallons recommended)
✅ Coco fiber or paper towel substrate
✅ Two+ climbing branches and hides
✅ Shallow water dish
✅ Crested gecko diet (CGD) powder
✅ Misting bottle
✅ Optional: live plants, hygrometer, thermostat
🏡 Habitat Setup
Crested Geckos are arboreal—they love to climb. Your enclosure should reflect that.
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F (night can drop to 68°F) |
| Humidity | 50–80% (mist 1–2x daily) |
| Lighting | Low UVB optional but helpful |
| Substrate | Coco fiber, paper towel |
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid heat lamps. Too much heat can stress or even kill crested geckos.
🥬 What Do Crested Geckos Eat?
They eat mostly fruit-based powdered diets plus insects.
Recommended feeding:
- ✅ CGD (Crested Gecko Diet): Every other day
- ✅ Live insects (e.g., crickets, dubia): 1–2x per week
- ✅ Dust insects with calcium + D3 powder
Always provide clean, fresh water.
🛌 Handling & Temperament
Crested Geckos are gentle but delicate.
- Start handling 2–3 weeks after bringing them home
- Keep sessions short (5–10 min at first)
- Let them climb on your hand, don’t grab them from above
❗ They can jump far and sometimes drop their tails (which won’t grow back)!
🧼 Cleaning Schedule
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Spot clean poop | Daily |
| Mist enclosure | 1–2 times daily |
| Water change | Daily |
| Substrate change | Every 2–4 weeks |
| Full clean | Monthly |
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Using a heat lamp or basking bulb
🚫 Over-misting and causing mold
🚫 Feeding only insects (nutritional imbalance)
🚫 Handling too much too early
🚫 Using loose substrates with baby geckos
🎂 Lifespan, Size & Behavior
- Adult Size: 7–9 inches
- Lifespan: 15–20 years with good care
- Activity: Mostly nocturnal
- Behavior: Calm, curious, can leap suddenly
🐾 Conclusion
Crested Geckos are low-maintenance but full of personality. With the right setup, food, and gentle care, they’ll thrive in your home for years.
Perfect for beginners, they’re a joy to watch, especially during nighttime when they come alive.