Mixed Morph Crested Gecko #1

Certain provinces require permits for the keeping and transportation of reptiles, with the Eastern Cape being one such province. Permit approval processes may take up to one month, depending on the relevant authority. It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure that any required captivity permits are applied for and approved prior to the purchase or transport of any reptile.

We will issue the necessary transport permit from the store’s name to the buyer’s name for the transfer of the animal. Thereafter, it remains the buyer’s responsibility to apply for and obtain the required captivity permit in accordance with their provincial regulations.

(Correlophus ciliatus)

Crested Geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles thanks to their manageable size, unique appearance, and relatively straightforward care requirements. Their expressive “eyelash” crests, climbing behaviour, and calm nature make them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced reptile keepers.

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Quick Facts

Common Name: Crested Gecko
Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus
Adult Size: 18–25cm
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
Temperament: Generally calm, curious, and handleable
Difficulty Level: Beginner friendly
Activity: Nocturnal / Crepuscular

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Enclosure Requirements

Minimum Enclosure Size

Juveniles: 30 x 30 x 45cm
Adults (single): 45 x 45 x 60cm minimum
Larger is always recommended

Crested Geckos are arboreal and require height rather than floor space.

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Enclosure Setup

Recommended:

• Vertical terrarium / arboreal enclosure
• Branches and climbing vines
• Cork bark tubes
• Dense artificial or live plants
• Elevated hides
• Feeding ledge / magnetic feeding station
• Water dish
• Humid hide (optional)

Crested Geckos thrive in heavily planted, secure environments with plenty of cover.

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Heating & Temperature

Day Temperatures

Ideal ambient: 22–26°C

Night Temperatures

Can safely drop to:
18–22°C

Important Temperature Warning

Temperatures above 28°C for extended periods can be dangerous or fatal.

Heating Equipment (if needed)

Recommended only if room temperatures are too low:

• Low wattage ceramic heat emitter
• Deep heat projector
• Thermostat-controlled heating

Never use heating equipment without a thermostat.

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Humidity

Ideal humidity:
50–70%

Recommended routine:

• Light misting in the evening
• Allow enclosure to partially dry between mistings
• Brief humidity spikes after misting are normal

Too much constantly wet humidity can cause mould and respiratory issues.

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Lighting

Crested Geckos do not require intense lighting but benefit from a natural day/night cycle.

Recommended:

• 10–12 hour light cycle
• Low-level UVB (2–7%) beneficial but not essential if diet is balanced

Benefits of UVB:

• Supports natural behaviour
• Assists calcium metabolism
• Encourages activity

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Substrate

Suitable options:

✅ Coconut fibre
✅ Bioactive substrate mixes
✅ Paper towel (quarantine / juveniles)
✅ Sphagnum moss blends
✅ Reptile-safe natural substrates

Avoid:
❌ Cedar / pine
❌ Dusty substrates
❌ Constantly soaked substrate

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Feeding

Staple Diet

Commercial complete Crested Gecko diet (powder mixed with water), such as:

• Repashy
• Pangea
• Arcadia formulations

Feeding Frequency

Juveniles: Daily or every second day
Adults: 3–4 times weekly

Live Insects

Offer 1–2 times weekly:

• Crickets
• Dubia roaches
• Black soldier fly larvae
• Silkworms (occasionally)

Insects should be gut-loaded and dusted appropriately.

Fruit

Occasional treats only:

• Mango
• Papaya
• Fig
• Banana (sparingly)

Avoid citrus.

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Supplementation

If feeding a complete commercial diet, supplementation needs are reduced.

If feeding live insects:

• Calcium regularly
• Multivitamin as directed

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Water

Fresh water should always be available.

Crested Geckos often prefer licking water droplets after misting.

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Handling

Crested Geckos are generally gentle but can be jumpy.

Tips:

• Allow settling in for 5–7 days
• Handle gently and low to the ground
• Support the gecko fully
• Avoid excessive handling initially

Juveniles tend to be more energetic and flighty.

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Tail Drop

Important:
Crested Geckos may drop their tails if stressed.

Unlike Leopard Geckos, their tails do not grow back.

A tailless Crested Gecko ("frogbutt") can still live a perfectly healthy life.

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Shedding

Signs:

• Dull skin
• Reduced activity
• Increased hiding

Ensure:

• Proper humidity
• Good hydration
• Correct enclosure conditions

Crested Geckos often eat their shed skin.

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Cleaning

Daily

• Remove uneaten food
• Refresh water
• Spot clean waste

Weekly

• Wipe décor / feeding ledges
• Clean glass

Monthly

• Full enclosure clean
• Replace substrate where applicable

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Common Health Issues

Watch for:

⚠ Metabolic bone disease
⚠ Dehydration
⚠ Stuck shed
⚠ Weight loss
⚠ Mouth rot
⚠ Parasites
⚠ Respiratory infections (poor ventilation / excess humidity)

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Compatibility / Housing

Best kept singly.

Important:

• Males should never be housed together
• Cohabitation is generally not recommended due to stress and competition

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Feeding Guide by Age

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Important Notes

• Crested Geckos are excellent climbers and escape artists.
• Secure-fitting lids are essential.
• They prefer moderate temperatures rather than high heat.
• Excessive handling can cause stress.

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Is a Crested Gecko Right for You?

Great if you want:
✔ A beginner-friendly arboreal reptile
✔ A relatively simple feeding routine
✔ A unique and interactive pet
✔ A reptile suited to moderate room temperatures

Not ideal if you want:
✘ A reptile that enjoys frequent handling
✘ A desert species requiring high heat

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Coastal Aquariums & Pet Supplies Tip

A healthy Crested Gecko should have:
Clear eyes, strong grip, good body condition, active climbing behaviour, and a healthy feeding response.