🦎 Crested Gecko Care Sheet
📌 Species Overview
-
Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus (formerly Rhacodactylus ciliatus)
-
Common Name: Crested gecko or eyelash gecko
-
Native Habitat: New Caledonia (South Pacific islands)
-
Temperament: Docile, curious, and easy to handle
-
Size: 5–8 inches (including tail)
-
Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity
🏠 Enclosure & Habitat
-
Juveniles: 10–20 gallon vertical tank
-
Adults: Minimum 20-gallon tall terrarium; vertical space is more important than floor space
-
Substrate: Coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or paper towels; avoid loose particles for juveniles
-
Decor: Branches, vines, cork bark, and foliage for climbing and hiding
-
Humidity: 50–70%; mist 1–2 times daily
-
Temperature Range:
-
Daytime: 72–78°F
-
Nighttime: 65–72°F
-
-
Lighting: No UVB required, but low-level UVB can be beneficial; maintain a 12-hour light/dark cycle
-
Ventilation: Essential to prevent mold and respiratory issues
🍽️ Feeding
-
Diet: Omnivorous; eats commercial crested gecko diet (CGD), fruit puree, and occasional insects
-
Feeding Schedule:
-
CGD: Offer every other day
-
Insects (e.g., crickets, dubia roaches): 1–2 times per week, dusted with calcium
-
-
Feeding Time: Evening or night (they’re nocturnal)
-
Water: Provide a shallow dish and mist enclosure for drinking droplets
💧 Hydration & Humidity
-
Mist enclosure daily to maintain humidity
-
Monitor with a hygrometer
-
Provide water droplets on leaves and surfaces for licking
🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance
-
Spot clean daily
-
Replace uneaten food every 24–48 hours
-
Deep clean enclosure and replace substrate monthly
🧑⚕️ Health & Handling
-
Signs of good health: Active at night, sticky toe pads, clear eyes, regular shedding
-
Common issues: Dehydration, stuck shed, metabolic bone disease (from calcium deficiency)
-
Handling tips: Gentle and brief at first; they may jump—handle over soft surfaces
🛒 Supply Checklist
-
Tall, secure terrarium with screen top
-
Branches, vines, and hides
-
Substrate and misting bottle
-
Thermometer and hygrometer
-
Commercial CGD and feeder insects
-
Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements


