🦎 General Info


The Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) — also known as the eyelash gecko — is a small to medium-sized arboreal gecko native to New Caledonia, an island group in the South Pacific. Once thought to be extinct, this species was rediscovered in 1994 and has since become one of the most popular pet reptiles due to its unique look, calm temperament, and simple care requirements.


Crested Geckos are named for the fringed “lashes” that run from their eyes down their backs. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns (called morphs) including flame, harlequin, dalmatian, and lily white. Adults reach 7–9 inches in total length, including their prehensile tail. They are nocturnal, semi-arboreal, and thrive in moderately humid, planted enclosures. Crested Geckos are excellent display animals and, with gentle handling, can become quite tame and curious companions.


Enclosure

  • Size:

  • Juveniles: Minimum 12” x 12” x 18”

  • Adults: Minimum 18” x 18” x 24” (taller is better, as they love to climb)

  • Material: Glass or PVC vertical terrariums with front-opening doors are ideal. PVC retains humidity well and is easy to clean. Good ventilation is essential to prevent mold growth.


  • Substrate: Use moisture-retaining substrates like coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or bioactive soil. A 2–4 inch layer maintains humidity and supports live plants or isopod colonies if going bioactive.


  • Décor: Crested Geckos thrive in heavily planted, vertically structured enclosures. Provide branches, cork bark tubes, vines, and broad leaves for climbing and hiding. Live or artificial plants both work well. Include at least two secure hiding spots — one near the top and one lower down.


  • Crested Geckos are solitary, so house only one per enclosure unless breeding. Males should never be housed together.


Temperature & Lighting

  • Ambient Temperature (Day): 72–78°F


  • Basking Spot: Optional, low-level area around 82–85°F max


  • Night Temperature: 68–72°F (can safely drop to 65°F briefly)


  • Heating: Most rooms kept between 70–78°F don’t require supplemental heat. If needed, use a low-watt ceramic heat emitter or heat panel, controlled by a thermostat. Avoid hot basking bulbs that dry out the enclosure.


  • UVB Lighting: While Crested Geckos are crepuscular/nocturnal, they still benefit from low-level UVB (2–5%) for proper calcium metabolism and overall health. Use a T5 HO UVB tube covering part of the enclosure and replace every 6–12 months.


  • Day/Night Cycle: Provide 12 hours of light daily to maintain a natural rhythm.


Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: 60–80% Mist the enclosure 2–3 times daily, allowing it to dry out slightly between misting. High humidity is vital, but avoid keeping it constantly wet.


  • Water: Provide a small water bowl and mist leaves — Crested Geckos often lick water droplets from surfaces. Change water daily and keep the bowl clean.


  • Shedding: Maintain humidity to ensure clean sheds. If stuck shed appears (often on toes or tail), offer a humid hide or gently mist to assist removal.


Diet

  • Type: Primarily frugivorous (fruit-eating), supplemented with insects.


  • Staple Foods:

  • Commercial Crested Gecko Diet (CGD): This powdered diet mixed with water provides complete nutrition and should form the basis of their diet.

  • Insects (2–3 times weekly): Gut-loaded crickets, roaches, or black soldier fly larvae. Feed at night when they’re active.

  • Occasional Treats: Mashed fruit like banana, mango, or papaya (once a week at most).


  • Supplements: If feeding insects regularly:

  • Calcium powder (without D3): Every feeding.

  • Calcium with D3: 1–2 times per week if UVB is provided.

  • Multivitamin: Once a week.

  • Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: CGD daily; insects 2–3 times weekly.

  • Adults: CGD every other day; insects 1–2 times weekly.

  • Feeding Tip: Crested Geckos can be shy eaters — place their food dish elevated near climbing areas where they feel secure.


Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament: Crested Geckos are typically docile, calm, and easy to handle, especially compared to other gecko species. They may jump when startled, but rarely bite.


  • Handling:

  • Handle gently and close to a soft surface in case they leap.

  • Let them move between your hands (“hand walking”) rather than restraining them.

  • Never grab their tail — they can drop it (autotomy), and unlike some lizards, it will not grow back.

  • Enrichment: Offer climbing branches, live plants, and different textures to explore. Rearrange décor occasionally to encourage curiosity.


Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 15–20+ years in captivity with proper care.


  • Common Health Issues:

  • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by poor calcium or lack of UVB.

  • Shedding Issues: From low humidity.

  • Dehydration: Results in wrinkled skin or sunken eyes; mist more frequently.

  • Stress: Due to overhandling, too much light, or improper temps/humidity.

  • Stuck Tail or Toe Shed: Provide humid hide and gently assist if needed.

Final Note: The Crested Gecko is one of the better beginner reptiles due to its gentle nature, simple care, and lack of need for intense heat or lighting. Their expressive faces, wide color range, and manageable size make them a favorite among keepers of all experience levels. With the right humidity, a healthy diet, and a well-decorated vertical habitat, your Crested Gecko can thrive for decades as a fascinating and friendly companion.