Common Name :- Crested Gecko.

Classification/Latin name :- Rhacodactylus ciliatus.

Size :- 15-20 cm from head to tip of tail.

Distribution :- New Caledonia.

Natural Habitat:-

Forest and scrubland, dense vegetation.

Description:-

The Crested Gecko is a slow moving arboreal gecko which has adhesive toe pads that allow it to climb almost any surface, including glass. It also has a prehensile tail with an adhesive pad on the tip which allows excellent maneuverability. It also has an attractive fringe of scales over each eye giving it an almost prehistoric look as do the large eyes which indicate that it prefers low light conditions. Crested Geckos can be obtained in a variety of colour morphs. Like other geckos, Cresteds can vocalize which is more common with breeding pairs. They are extremely handleable lizards but have the inclination to jump so be aware. Their tail can be shed in stressful circumstances and will not grow back. eg; bad handling experience or mating.

Enclosure size:-

A 60cm vivarium, that is well ventilated, preferably at least 45cm tall will house a trio of Cresteds(One male ONLY as fighting will occur between two males for territory/breeding if a female is present.)

Heating and temperature:-

Crested Geckos only require cool conditions, normal household temperatures usually are sufficient, however a heatmat for the side of the vivarium to provide a hot spot is recommended.

Lighting and day length:-

These lizards are nocturnal, so any lighting will encourage them to hide. Consequently, UV tubes are not necessary and will do little good for this species.

Humidity:-

A relatively high level of humidity is required for these lizards, spraying them and the enclosure every few days is recommended.

Substrate and decoration:-

Bark chipings as a substrate is perfect for keeping the humidity up. As this lizard is arboreal, arranged branches to climb and plastic plants will provide security .

Feeding and vitamins:-

We recommend feeding young Cresteds for the first few months, daily, with as many insects as they will eat and vitamin dusted babyfood or a commercially sold crested gecko diet. After that, switch to every other day and feed as many as they will eat in a short period, usually 4-6 items. Each insect should be no longer than the width of the lizards head. Crickets and locusts are the ideal staple diet, with wax worms and mealworms as an occasional treat(Alternatively, wait for the waxworm to hatch out into a waxmoth which Crested love to catch!). All food items should be dusted with vitamins by putting the insects in a small polythene bag with a pinch of multi vitamins like Repton, or other calcium or D3 based vitamins formulated for insectivorous reptiles, then shaking to coat the food items, prior to feeding.

Possible problems:-

Shedding can be a problem if the vivarium is too dry, a regular spray can prevent this from occuring. Otherwise, the Crested Gecko is a very hardy and problem free lizard providing the conditions described are met.

Handling:-

A good handling lizard with a calm temperament when handled fairly frequently. The only downside is if they do shed their tail it will not grow back.

Breeding and egg incubation:-

Coming soon!

Further reading:-