Crested Gecko Care Sheet
General Information
- Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Size: 15-25 cm (6-10 inches)
Housing
- Tank Size: Minimum 45 x 45 x 60 cm (18 x 18 x 24 inches) for one adult gecko. Taller enclosures are preferred due to their arboreal nature.
- Substrate: Suitable substrates include coconut fiber, peat moss, or a soil and sand mix. Ensure the substrate retains humidity but drains well to prevent mold.
Heating
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Temperature Gradient:
- Daytime: 22-26°C (72-78°F)
- Nighttime: 18-21°C (65-70°F)
- Heating: Generally, additional heating is not required if room temperatures remain within the ideal range. Use a low-wattage heat source if necessary, but avoid direct contact with the gecko.
Lighting
- Lighting: Crested geckos do not require UVB lighting but providing a low-level UVB light can be beneficial for their overall health.
- Photoperiod: Mimic natural conditions with a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle.
Humidity
- Humidity Level: 50-70%. Mist the enclosure daily to maintain humidity levels, and provide a hygrometer to monitor humidity.
Diet
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Staple Foods:
- Commercial Diet: Use a high-quality powdered crested gecko diet mixed with water.
- Insects: Offer live insects such as crickets and dubia roaches as occasional treats.
- Fruits: Occasionally offer mashed fruits like bananas, peaches, and mangoes.
- Feeding Frequency: Provide the commercial diet 3-4 times a week and insects once a week.
Water
- Water: Provide a shallow dish of fresh water daily. Crested geckos often prefer to drink water droplets from leaves, so misting is crucial.
Handling
- Handling Frequency: Handle your gecko gently and infrequently to build trust. Overhandling can cause stress.
- Support: Always support their entire body to make them feel secure.
Health
- Shedding: Crested geckos shed regularly. Maintain proper humidity to aid shedding. Check toes and tail for retained shed.
- Signs of Illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal feces, respiratory issues, or visible parasites. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any signs are noticed.
Cleaning
- Spot Cleaning: Daily removal of feces and uneaten food.
- Deep Cleaning: Monthly deep clean of the entire enclosure, including changing the substrate and disinfecting the tank and decor.
Enrichment
- Climbing Opportunities: Provide branches, vines, and reptile-safe decor to encourage natural climbing behaviors.
- Hide Variety: Offer multiple hides with different textures and materials to provide security.
Common Crested Gecko Morphs
- Normal (Wild Type): Typical pattern and coloration found in the wild.
- Flame: Pattern with a lighter color on the back.
- Harlequin: More extensive pattern coverage on the sides.
- Dalmatian: Spotted pattern with varying spot densities.
- Pinstripe: Stripes running down the sides of the dorsal crest.
- Brindle: Striped pattern with irregular lines.
Special Care for Certain Morphs
- Morphs: Most morphs do not require special care beyond the standard care sheet. However, regular health checks are important to monitor for any unique health issues related to their genetics.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a healthy and happy life for your crested gecko. Regular observation and proper care are key to their well-being.