Crested Gecko

The Crested Gecko is a species of arboreal gecko native to New Caledonia, an archipelago located in the southwest Pacific. Found primarily on the islands of Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands, this gecko inhabits tropical forests and coastal areas, often residing in tree branches and shrubs where it can camouflage effectively. Crested Geckos are known for their distinctive appearance, with a smooth, light brown or grayish body covered in small, bumpy scales, and their most striking feature—the "crests" along their heads, eyes, and down their backs. These crests are formed by fronds of skin that create a feathered or "crest-like" appearance, giving the species its name.

Crested Geckos are nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in the trees. They are primarily insectivores and frugivores, feeding on a diet that includes insects, fruit, and nectar. In captivity, they are often fed a commercial powdered diet made specifically for crested geckos, but they will also enjoy live insects such as crickets and mealworms, as well as fresh fruits like mashed banana and mango. This gecko species is known for its ability to adapt to various diets, but a balanced mix of insects and fruit is essential for its health.

Despite their somewhat small size—typically growing to about 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm)—Crested Geckos are strong climbers, using their prehensile tails and adhesive toe pads to navigate tree branches and other vertical surfaces with ease. Their tails are not only used for balance but also play a role in communication and signaling. Unlike many other geckos, Crested Geckos can drop their tails as a defense mechanism, though they do not regenerate them. Their ability to glide short distances also adds to their fascinating behavior, aided by a flap of skin on each side of their body, which creates a gliding surface when stretched out.

Crested Geckos are popular pets due to their docile temperament, ease of care, and unique appearance. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of terrarium setups, as long as they are provided with appropriate humidity, temperature (72°F to 80°F, or 22°C to 27°C), and hiding spots. Although they are not typically aggressive, they may display defensive behavior when stressed or handled too roughly, but with gentle care, they can become quite tame.

Fun Facts:
Crested Geckos are known for their unique ability to glide short distances, using flaps of skin along their body.

They can drop their tails when threatened, although unlike some geckos, their tails do not regenerate.

These geckos are popular pets for their gentle nature and low-maintenance care requirements.