Animal of the Month – June 2025: The Crested Gecko!

The goal of our Animal of the Month program is to highlight species that make excellent pets for herp keepers of any experience level. But what makes a great pet? While the answer varies, we look for a few key traits: a docile temperament, attractive appearance, and simple care requirements. This month’s pick checks all the boxes—meet the Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)!

Why We Recommend Crested Geckos

Crested Geckos are among the world’s most popular pet lizards. They were thought to be extinct until 1994. Now, they are widely bred in captivity, making them easy to find year-round in a variety of stunning colors and patterns. Native to the tropical forests of southern New Caledonia, these arboreal geckos thrive in the rainforest canopy. They are agile jumpers with semi-prehensile tails and sticky toes. These features help them cling to vertical surfaces. The term "Lazarus taxon species" describes a species thought to be extinct but later rediscovered.

Crested Geckos are ideal for both beginners and experienced keepers. They reach about 8 inches as adults. This size is large enough to handle but small enough for modest enclosures. Years of breeding have produced countless morphs to choose from. They are hardy and typically calm. They handle well, but keep in mind they may drop their tail if stressed. Unfortunately, their tail does not regrow.

Simple Care Needs

Caring for Crested Geckos is straightforward. Babies do well in 10-gallon tanks, while juveniles and adults thrive in tall terrariums like Zoo Med’s 12"x12"x18". Use substrates such as Eco Earth or ReptiSoil, 2–3 inches deep, to retain moisture. Additionally, include vertical decor like cork bark or grapevine for climbing and hiding. Consider providing live plants for aesthetics and comfort, as they can enhance the gecko's environment.

Ideal Conditions for Crested Geckos

To maintain a healthy habitat, keep the warm side of the enclosure between 72–78°F. The overall temperature should be near 70°F. Humidity levels should be maintained between 50–70%. Mist the enclosure daily or use a Zoo Med Repti Fogger for optimal humidity. A shallow water dish is also recommended; however, geckos often prefer to drink droplets from surfaces.

To accurately monitor conditions, use a thermometer and hygrometer. These tools help ensure your Crested Gecko has the right environment to thrive.

Feeding Made Easy

Crested Geckos are fruit-loving omnivores. They enjoy a diet of powdered foods from brands like Pangea or Repashy. Just mix these powders with water and serve! For optimal health, it’s best to add calcium-dusted insects like crickets or roaches once a week.

With the right setup and proper care, Crested Geckos can live for 15–20 years, and sometimes even longer. This long lifespan makes them a rewarding pet choice.

Conclusion: A Perfect Pet Choice

To celebrate our June pick, we are offering 20% off well-started, captive-bred baby Crested Geckos this month while supplies last. If you’re considering a new pet lizard, now is the perfect time!

Choosing a Crested Gecko as your new pet means you’ll have a companion that is not only visually appealing but also fun and easy to care for. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced reptile keeper, they bring joy to any home. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring one of these incredible creatures into your life!