Crested Gecko

Crested gecko（圖片來源：annakilljoy，CC0 1.0 公共領域）

The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is an arboreal gecko native to the southern regions of New Caledonia in the South Pacific. It was first described in 1866 by the French zoologist Alphonse Guichenot. However, it was not observed again for a long period and was once believed to be extinct. In 1994, a German herpetologist, Robert Seipp, led an expedition that rediscovered the species on Île des Pins, bringing it back into scientific recognition. Shortly afterward, a small number of individuals were introduced to Europe and North America for captive breeding. Stable populations were established rapidly, and today it has become one of the most popular pet reptiles worldwide.

In the wild, crested geckos are primarily distributed in the southern province of New Caledonia, including parts of the main island and Île des Pins. They prefer low-level vegetation and shrubs in tropical rainforests and are rarely found on large tree trunks. Instead, they are most commonly active among vines and slender branches at heights below approximately four meters. As nocturnal animals, they spend the daytime hidden in dense foliage or bird's nest ferns and emerge at night to forage. Their diet includes insects as well as fruits, nectar, and pollen. This omnivorous feeding habit allows them to occupy multiple ecological roles, functioning both as predators and as potential contributors to pollination and seed dispersal.

Crested geckos typically reach a total length of 20 to 25 cm, with the tail accounting for 10 to 15 cm. One of their most distinctive features is the row of small projections above the eyes that resemble eyelashes, extending along both sides of the head toward the back, which gives rise to the name “crested.” Like other geckos, they lack eyelids; instead, their eyes are covered by a transparent scale, which they keep clean and moist by licking. Their tails are prehensile and aid in climbing. However, if the tail is dropped as a defensive response, it does not regenerate, unlike in many other gecko species. As a result, most adults in the wild are tailless.

Regarding reproduction, female crested geckos typically lay two eggs every 4 to 6 weeks during the breeding season, which can last 8 to 10 months. In the wild, seasonal changes in light and temperature influence their reproductive cycles. Hatchlings initially rely on yolk reserves, and only begin feeding after their first shed, which they consume. Although many aspects of their natural behavior remain unclear, their reproductive biology is well established under captive conditions.

In their native habitat, crested geckos face predation from introduced species such as rats and cats. Additionally, the invasive little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) poses a major threat, as it not only attacks geckos in large numbers but also competes with them for insect prey. Habitat destruction caused by forest fires and introduced deer and pigs further threatens their survival. Although wild populations are classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), widespread captive breeding provides an alternative pathway for the species' persistence.

Once a crested gecko drops its tail, it cannot regenerate it（圖片來源：Margo226，CC0 1.0 公共領域）

Housing Requirements in Captivity

As arboreal animals, crested geckos are adapted for climbing and jumping, so enclosures should emphasize vertical space. For a single adult, a terrarium measuring at least 45 × 45 × 60 cm is recommended, made of glass or acrylic. When housing one male with multiple females, enclosure size should be increased proportionally. However, two males should never be kept together, as this will lead to aggressive conflict.

The enclosure should contain sufficient branches, vines, and vegetation to allow climbing, hiding, and resting. Both artificial plants and natural branches can be used, but all structures must be securely fixed to prevent collapse and injury. Suitable substrates include coconut fiber, bark chips, or forest floor mixes, which retain moisture well and provide appropriate egg-laying sites for females. Live plants such as bird's nest ferns, figs, or pothos can also be incorporated to provide natural cover and help maintain humidity.

The optimal daytime temperature ranges from 22 to 27°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 18 to 22°C. Crested geckos are highly sensitive to heat; prolonged exposure above 30°C can result in stress or even death. Direct sunlight must therefore be avoided, especially during summer. Although they are nocturnal, providing moderate UVB lighting can support vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption, contributing to long-term health. A light cycle of 10 to 14 hours is recommended to simulate natural day–night rhythms.

Humidity is critical and should be maintained between 60% and 80%. The enclosure should be misted once or twice daily, allowing geckos to drink water droplets from leaf surfaces while also promoting breeding behavior. A shallow water dish should also be provided and replenished daily to ensure a constant source of clean water.

Crested gecko（圖片來源：Lennart Hudel，採用 CC BY 4.0 授權）

Feeding Conditions

In the wild, crested geckos consume a wide variety of foods, including insects, fruits, pollen, and nectar. This omnivorous diet makes them relatively easy to care for in captivity. Commercial powdered diets formulated specifically for crested geckos are widely available; these can be mixed with water into a paste and provide balanced nutrition for daily feeding. Food should be placed in elevated dishes or holders within the enclosure to match their arboreal feeding habits.

In addition to commercial diets, live insects such as crickets, mealworms, or waxworms should be offered periodically to stimulate natural hunting behavior. The size of the insects should not exceed the width of the gecko's head. Because captive feeder insects often lack sufficient nutritional value, they should be dusted with calcium and multivitamin supplements prior to feeding to prevent calcium deficiency and metabolic bone disease. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed three to four times per week. Uneaten food should be removed promptly to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth or accidental injury.

Crested geckos are particularly attracted to sweet fruits, and small amounts of mashed banana, mango, or peach can be offered occasionally as treats. However, these should not replace the staple diet, as excessive sugar intake is detrimental to long-term health. Hydration is primarily achieved through licking water droplets from surfaces, making daily misting essential. Clean water must also be continuously available in the enclosure.

Breeding Conditions

Crested geckos breed relatively easily in captivity, but proper preparation and knowledge are essential. Males typically reach sexual maturity at 10 to 15 months of age or when they exceed 35 grams in weight, while females should be at least 12 months old and of sufficient body condition before breeding. Breeding females that are too small can suffer serious health consequences.

A common breeding setup involves one male with two females. After mating, females lay two eggs every 4 to 6 weeks, and a breeding season may last 8 to 10 months. A suitable laying box filled with moist substrate such as coconut fiber or sphagnum moss should be provided. Eggs should be carefully removed without changing their orientation and incubated in a humid medium at approximately 25°C, with humidity levels similar to those of the enclosure. Hatching typically occurs after 60 to 100 days.

Hatchlings are small and delicate, initially relying on yolk reserves before beginning to feed after their first shed. At this stage, finely sized insects or prepared diets can be offered. Due to rapid growth, juveniles have high demands for calcium and nutrients, making supplementation especially important. Females should also receive adequate nutritional support after breeding to prevent weakness or mortality.

For keepers without breeding intentions, it is advisable to avoid long-term cohabitation of males and females to prevent unintended egg-laying and the associated care burden that may lead to abandonment.

Preventing Invasive Spread

Although crested geckos are widely kept in captivity around the world, their natural distribution is restricted to New Caledonia, where they are endemic. The success of captive breeding has made them readily available in many regions, but this also introduces ecological risks. If released or abandoned in non-native environments, they may establish populations in suitable climates and potentially impact local native species.

For this reason, keepers must strictly adhere to the principle of not releasing or abandoning animals. Regardless of changes in personal circumstances or interest, crested geckos should never be released into the wild. If continued care is not possible, they should be rehomed responsibly through other qualified keepers or legitimate animal care organizations. Through responsible husbandry and education, this remarkable species can continue to thrive in captivity without posing a threat to natural ecosystems.

Author: Shui-Ye You