The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is one of the easiest reptiles to keep and a perfect first lizard. They don’t need high temperatures, eat a convenient powdered diet, and are handleable and hardy. Once thought to be extinct, they were rediscovered in New Caledonia in 1994 and have since become one of the UK’s most popular pet reptiles.
Vivarium Setup
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Enclosure size (adult) | 45 × 45 × 60 cm (tall, arboreal) |
| Enclosure type | Glass terrarium (Exo Terra) or mesh-front PVC |
| Substrate | Coconut fibre, bioactive soil, or paper towels |
| Decor | Lots of branches, vines, cork bark, and live/fake plants |
| Water | Misting (they drink droplets from leaves) |
Crested geckos are arboreal — they need vertical space, not floor space. A tall enclosure with plenty of climbing opportunities is essential. Live plants (pothos, bromeliads) add enrichment and help maintain humidity. A front-opening glass terrarium like the Exo Terra range is ideal because it provides visibility, ventilation, and easy access.
Temperature
| Zone | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Daytime | 22–26°C |
| Night | 18–22°C (natural room temp in UK homes) |
| Maximum | Never exceed 29°C (dangerous) |
This is one of the crested gecko’s biggest advantages — they thrive at UK room temperature. In most British homes, no supplemental heating is needed from spring to autumn. In winter, a low-wattage ceramic heat emitter or heat mat on the side (not underneath) may be needed if your room drops below 18°C. Always use a thermostat.
Humidity & Misting
Crested geckos need 60–80% humidity. Achieve this by misting the enclosure with a hand sprayer once in the evening (they’re nocturnal and most active at night). Allow the enclosure to dry out during the day to around 50% — constant dampness causes respiratory infections and skin issues.
Crested geckos drink water droplets from leaves rather than from a standing bowl. Misting serves the dual purpose of hydration and humidity. A shallow water dish can be provided as backup, but most geckos prefer licking mist droplets.
Diet — Powdered Complete Diets
The biggest advantage of crested geckos: they eat a powdered complete diet mixed with water — no live insects required (though insects are a beneficial supplement).
| Diet | Notes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pangea Fruit Mix Complete | Most popular, many flavours | £12–£18 |
| Repashy Crested Gecko MRP | The original, well-balanced | £10–£15 |
| Live insects (optional) | Crickets, locusts 2x/week | Varies |
Mix the powder with water to a smoothie consistency and offer in a small elevated dish (magnetic ledge cups work perfectly). Replace uneaten food every 24–48 hours. Offering live insects (dusted with calcium) 1–2 times per week provides enrichment and additional protein, but it’s not essential if using a complete diet like Pangea or Repashy.
Handling
Crested geckos are generally calm and tolerant of handling, though they can be jumpy — especially juveniles. They move in short, quick hops, so always handle over a soft surface and keep your second hand ready as a “landing pad.” Handling sessions of 10–15 minutes daily help build trust. Never grab or squeeze — let them walk from hand to hand.
Tail Loss
Crested geckos can drop their tail if stressed, grabbed roughly, or during conflict with another gecko. Unlike leopard geckos, crested gecko tails do not grow back. A tailless crested gecko (“frogbutt”) is perfectly healthy and lives a completely normal life — most breeders and keepers consider it a cosmetic-only issue. However, prevent tail loss by handling gently and never housing males together.
Lighting
Crested geckos are crepuscular/nocturnal, so they don’t bask like bearded dragons. However, modern best practice includes providing a low-level UVB light (5–7% T8 or T5 tube, e.g., Arcadia ShadeDweller) for 10–12 hours daily. UVB supports natural vitamin D3 synthesis and has been shown to improve appetite, colour, and overall wellbeing. It’s not strictly mandatory if you’re supplementing with D3 powder, but it’s strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are crested geckos good for beginners?
Yes — they’re one of the best beginner reptiles. They thrive at room temperature, eat a convenient powdered diet, are handleable, and have minimal setup requirements. The main care task is daily misting and food replacement.
How long do crested geckos live?
Crested geckos live 15–20 years in captivity with proper care. This is a long-term commitment.
Can I keep crested geckos together?
Females can sometimes cohabitate in a large enclosure, but never house males together — they will fight. Mixed pairs will breed constantly. For beginners, solo housing is strongly recommended.
Related Reading
- Leopard Gecko Care Guide UK
- Royal Python Care Guide UK
- Bearded Dragon Care Guide UK
- Best Gifts for Reptile Lovers
