Crested geckos are one of the largest gecko species. Although considered endangered in the wild, they are one of the most popular reptiles kept as pets. They are low maintenance and generally friendly and docile creatures. Their various pattern morphs make them so unique, it is said there are no two that look alike.
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It was discovered and described in 1866 by a French zoologist Alphone Guichenot.
Until 1994 the species was thought to be extinct, until rediscovered by Robert Seipp’s expedition.
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It is native to southern New Caledonia in the southwest Pacific Ocean.
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It is approximately 15-25 cm (6-10 in) long, including a 10-15 cm (4-6 in) long tail.
Crested gecko is one of the smallest of Correlophus lizards, but one of the largest gecko species.
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It is an omnivore, unlike most of gecko species.
It feeds on fruit, pollen, nectar and various insects.
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Due to the crest of skin over its eyes, crested gecko has been nicknamed “eyelash”.
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Unlike most lizards, crested geckos do not have eyelids.
They have to moisten their eyes by licking them. It is also a remedy for debris.
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Although in captivity crested geckos breed easily, little is known about their reproductive behavior in wilderness.
In captivity, female lays two eggs that hatch approximately 60 – 150 days after.
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It is second most popular choice for lizard lovers in the pet trade.
They can hear, however, and are extremely sensitive to loud sounds.
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Although, like other lizards, crested geckos can swim, it is such a stressful activity they won’t swim until no other choice.
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Crested geckos emit loud squeaks when threaten or afraid.
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However lizards can regenerate amputated tails, crested geckos do not possess this ability.
Once lost, it’s gone forever.
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Their toes and tip of tail are covered in small hair called setae.
It helps them climb various surfaces, even smooth, vertical ones.
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While in captivity, adult crested geckos should be kept in separate tanks.
Especially males and females.
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There are many skin color groups occurring in wilderness, including various shades of yellow, orange, brown, grey or red, that form three color morphs – pattern-less, white-fringed and tiger.
Crested geckos bred in captivity have many color morphs absent in the wild, such as the harlequin.
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They can also make their colors more vibrant due to camouflage, communication or as a response to humidity, temperature, light, etc.
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They prefer humid environment.
Ideally, the humidity of their environment should not drop below 50% during the day, and 80% at night.
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Based on how long they were kept in captivity, crested geckos live approximately 15 – 20 years.
