Crested geckos are one of the most popular pet lizards in the world today. They have a unique look, and they’re easy to care for, making them ideal for reptile enthusiasts at any level of experience. But what else should you know about crested geckos? Here’s an overview of this fascinating creature.
History of Crested Geckos
Crested geckos were first discovered in 1866 by French zoologist Alphone Guichenot on Grand Terre Island near New Caledonia. It wasn’t until 1994 that they were rediscovered by two separate groups of researchers who realized that these animals had never been seen before in captivity. Since then, they have become increasingly popular as pets because of their docile dispositions and relatively low-maintenance care requirements.
Appearance and Behavior
Crested geckos have a unique look that sets them apart from other lizards. They have large eyes with vertical pupils, a crest of spines running along the length of their back and tail, and a prehensile tail that allows them to grip surfaces when climbing or defending themselves against predators. In terms of behavior, crested geckos are nocturnal animals who spend most of their time hiding during the day and coming out at night to hunt for food. They are also arboreal creatures, meaning they prefer to live in trees rather than on the ground.
Care Requirements
If you’re thinking about getting a crested gecko as a pet, there are some things you need to be aware of in order to keep your pet happy and healthy. One is that crested geckos require high levels of humidity in order to thrive—at least 50%, but ideally between 70% – 80%. You should keep your pet’s enclosure clean at all times and feed them an appropriate diet consisting primarily of insects such as crickets or mealworms supplemented with fruits or vegetables like bananas or bell peppers. Additionally, depending on where you live, you may need to provide your pet with UVB lighting if it doesn’t get enough natural sun exposure during the day.
FAQ
Are crested geckos good pets?
- Yes, crested geckos can make great pets. They are generally docile, easy to handle, and require minimal care.
Is a crested gecko a beginner pet?
- Yes, crested geckos are considered a good beginner pet for those new to reptile keeping.
How expensive is a crested gecko?
- The price of a crested gecko can vary depending on factors such as its age, sex, and morph. Generally, they can cost anywhere from $30 to several hundred dollars.
Do crested geckos bite?
- Crested geckos are not known to be aggressive and will usually not bite unless they feel threatened or provoked. However, bites are rare and typically not severe.
Are crested geckos noisy?
- No, crested geckos are generally quiet and do not make much noise.
Do crested geckos need to eat every day?
- Crested geckos do not need to eat every day, but they should be fed every other day. Younger geckos may need to be fed more frequently.
Do crested geckos need crickets?
- While crickets can be a part of a crested gecko’s diet, they are not essential. Crested geckos can be fed a variety of commercially available diets that provide all the necessary nutrients.
Do crested geckos need sunlight?
- Crested geckos do not require direct sunlight but they do require UVB lighting to metabolize calcium.
Do crested geckos need fruit?
- Fruit can be offered as an occasional treat, but it should not make up a significant portion of a crested gecko’s diet.
What are crested geckos favorite food?
- Crested geckos generally enjoy eating a variety of insects, fruit, and commercially available diets. Their favorite food can vary from individual to individual.
What do crested geckos eat every day?
- Crested geckos can be fed a variety of commercially available diets that provide all the necessary nutrients. These diets can be offered every other day.
What is the best food for a crested gecko?
- The best food for a crested gecko is a high-quality, nutritionally balanced commercially available diet that is specifically formulated for crested geckos.
How do I keep my crested gecko happy?
- To keep your crested gecko happy, you should provide them with a suitable enclosure, a variety of hiding spots, appropriate lighting and heating, a balanced diet, and clean water.
Do crested geckos need a lot of water?
- Crested geckos do not need a lot of water, but they should have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
How often should I clean my crested gecko tank?
- The frequency of cleaning your crested gecko tank depends on the size of the enclosure and the number of geckos housed within it. Generally, the enclosure should be spot-cleaned daily and completely cleaned and disinfected every 2-4 weeks.
Conclusion: Whether you’re a beginner reptile owner or an experienced herpetologist, there is something special about keeping a crested gecko as a pet. With its unique look and easy-to-care-for nature, it makes for an excellent companion animal for anyone looking for something different from more traditional companion animals like cats or dogs. Just remember that if you do decide to get one as a pet, make sure you research all their care requirements before bringing one home so that they can live happily ever after!
