Crested Gecko Care

What is a Crested Gecko?

A Crested Gecko is a beginner-friendly gecko from New Caledonia. Adults reach ~8 in snout-to-tail; 35–45 g and can live 15–20 years in captivity — a long-term commitment. A forgiving, arboreal beginner gecko from New Caledonian forests that thrives at room temperature, requires no heat lamp, and does well on a commercial crested gecko diet.

What size enclosure does a Crested Gecko need?

The minimum enclosure for an adult Crested Gecko is 18×18×24 in tall minimum; 18×18×36 recommended (arboreal — height prioritised over footprint). Height is critical for this arboreal species — prioritise vertical space over floor footprint. A screen/mesh enclosure promotes the airflow this species needs to stay healthy.

What you need:

1. Tall screen/mesh enclosure — height critical; prioritise vertical space over footprint.
2. Live or artificial plants — for cover, perching, and humidity retention.
3. Horizontal branches — multiple levels for basking and movement.
4. Cross-ventilation — screen sides or cross-ventilation panels; stagnant humid air is fatal.
5. Misting system — automated or manual, 2× daily minimum.

What temperature does a Crested Gecko need?

Crested Geckos need no dedicated basking lamp. Maintain ambient daytime temperatures of 70–75°F, with the top of the enclosure slightly warmer. Temperatures can drop to 65–72°F at night, which benefits digestion and immune function. Never exceed 85°F — heat stroke risk. Use a digital thermometer to monitor.

Do Crested Geckos need UVB?

Crested Geckos need low UVB — target UVI 1.0–2.0. A T5 HO 5–6% tube (e.g., Arcadia ShadeDweller) is recommended over supplementation alone. Use the UVB Calculator above to find the correct bulb and mounting height. Replace bulbs every 12 months regardless of whether they still emit visible light.

What humidity does a Crested Gecko need?

Maintain humidity at 60–80%. This species thrives on a wet/dry misting cycle — mist so all surfaces are wet, then allow the enclosure to dry fully before the next session. Good ventilation is non-negotiable; stagnant humid air causes fatal respiratory infections. A digital hygrometer is essential.

What do Crested Geckos eat?

Crested Geckos are omnivores — diet composition changes significantly with age. Commercial Crested Gecko Diet (CGD) is the nutritional staple — Pangea, Repashy, Arcadia, BPZ, or similar complete-diet products. Adults: CGD every 2–3 days + feeder insects (crickets, dubia, BSFL, hornworms) 0–1× per week. Juveniles: CGD daily + insects 1–2× weekly. Supplement insects with calcium. Fresh water always available.

Can you house Crested Geckos together?

Solitary recommended — males will fight fatally; female-only groups with very spacious enclosures possible but closely monitored Start with brief, calm handling sessions (5–10 minutes) and gradually increase as your Crested Gecko becomes accustomed to you. Wash hands before and after every handling session.

Are Crested Geckos good for beginners?

Yes — Crested Geckos are an excellent first reptile. Animals cost 35–100 (normal/common morphs); designer/pinstripe/dalmatian morphs 100–500+; rare morphs (axanthic) can exceed 1,000–5,000 depending on morph/locality. The main ongoing costs are varied diet items (insects, produce, or commercial diet), UVB bulb replacements, and occasional vet visits.