Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

Thinking about adding a gecko to your collection? The Crested Gecko could be the perfect pet for you. These charismatic creatures are not only fun to look at but also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers, much like Leopard Geckos. In this pet care article, we’ll explore why Crested Geckos are such wonderful companions, with pet expert tips on how to care for them properly. Here’s why they stand out:

Ease of Handling: 4/5

Crested geckos are generally simple to handle, but their personalities can vary a bit. Some of them are calm and content to sit in your hand, while others are more energetic and love to hop around. That springy nature is one of the things that makes them fun to interact with. The way that they act as babies is usually the way that they act as adults. If you like one that’s super calm, then go for one that is calm. If you like one is a super active, then go for one that is active.

You probably wouldn’t want to hand them over to a small child because rough handling could easily lead to serious injury for the gecko. They also have prehensile tails that they can drop if they feel threatened, which is something to watch out for because they will not grow it back. And your Crested Gecko will end up having a little nub for a tail forever. So please ensure that you keep handling to a reasonable amount, don’t accidentally squeeze, crush or startle them.

While they’re not super prone to biting, some Crested Geckos might nip if they’re startled—though it’s not common. It might draw like a single drop of blood which is not a big problem.

Overall, handling a Crested Gecko is easy, but just be mindful of their individual temperaments and always treat them gently to avoid causing stress or injury.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

Crested geckos are pretty low-maintenance pets, but they do have a few specific care requirements. The most important one is maintaining humidity in their enclosure. You’ll need to mist their tank every morning and evening to keep the air moist enough for them to drink, but not so wet that the entire tank stays damp. Over-misting could lead to respiratory issues for your Crested Gecko, so balance is key.

For food, Crested Geckos are relatively simple eaters. They primarily eat a pre-packaged crested gecko diet and occasionally enjoy live insects. These guys don’t have big appetites and some of them may prefer one type of food to another. So please start out with a small quantity and see what your gecko likes.

Temperature-wise, Crested Geckos do best at room temperature (65-75°F), and they don’t need additional heating unless your home gets uncomfortably cold. Just make sure they don’t get too hot, as that can cause stress and health issues for your Crested Gecko.

Health and Durability: 3/5

Crested Geckos are generally small and delicate compare to some other reptiles. Their small size means they can be injured easily, so it’s important to handle them with care. Dropping them or squeezing too tightly could lead to serious injury.

These geckos can also be sensitive to their environment. If the humidity isn’t just right or the temperature fluctuates too much, they can suffer from dehydration or respiratory problems. Their tails can fall off if they’re stressed, but don’t worry—they do regenerate, though they won’t look the same as the original.

To keep your gecko healthy, make sure the humidity, temperature, and feeding schedule are all spot-on. If you do that, they’ll thrive and live happily in your care.

Availability: 4/5

One of the great things about Crested Geckos is how widely available they are. You can find them through breeders or at reptile expos, where you’ll have the chance to meet a variety of geckos and choose one with the personality that fits you best. If you’re looking for a specific color or pattern, there’s plenty of variety, as Crested Geckos come in all sorts of shades and markings.

Some pet stores may carry them, but for the best experience, we recommend finding a reputable breeder who knows how to care for these geckos properly.

Initial Cost: 5/5

Crested Geckos are one of the most affordable reptiles to own. You can typically find one for around $30, especially if you buy directly from a breeder or at an expo. Of course, rarer morphs can get pricey, but the average Crested Gecko is very budget-friendly, especially when compared to other reptiles.

Setting up their habitat is also pretty affordable. They don’t need a large enclosure—something around 20 gallons is perfect—and you won’t have to invest in expensive equipment. A simple tank, a few hiding spots, and the right temperature control are all you really need to get started.

Final Thoughts: 4.0/5

The Crested Gecko is a fantastic reptile choice for pet lovers of all experience levels. They’re easy to care for, come in a variety of stunning colors, and offer plenty of interactive fun. While they do have some specific care requirements, such as maintaining proper humidity levels and providing the right food, they’re generally low-maintenance pets.

Whether you’re drawn to their playful personalities or their beautiful appearance, you’ll likely enjoy having a Crested Gecko as part of your pet family. If you’re still unsure, give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Have you ever owned a Crested Gecko? Share your experiences in the comments below! We’d love to hear your pet care tips and how you keep your Crested Gecko happy and healthy. Feel free to check out more of our pet reviews and expert tips for reptile care! 🦎