Are you thinking of getting a crested gecko as a pet? They are fascinating creatures that make great pets for beginners and experienced reptile owners alike. But before you bring one home, it’s important to know what you need to provide for their care.
Crested geckos require specific housing, lighting, temperature, and diet to thrive. In this article, we will explore all the essential items you need to ensure your crested gecko is healthy and happy in their new home. From the right terrarium to the best food options, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and learn what you need for a crested gecko!
To keep a crested gecko as a pet, you will need a terrarium of at least 20 gallons, a heat lamp, and a UVB light. You also need a substrate, such as coconut fiber or reptile carpet, and a water dish. Crested geckos are omnivores and require a diet of both insects and fruit-based meal replacement powders. Additionally, you may want to provide various climbing structures and hiding places for your gecko to explore and feel secure.
What Do You Need for a Crested Gecko?
Crested geckos are one of the most popular pets among reptile enthusiasts. They are easy to care for and can be a great addition to your home. However, before getting a crested gecko, there are a few things you need to consider. In this article, we will discuss the essential items you need to care for a crested gecko.
Housing
The first thing you will need is a suitable enclosure for your crested gecko. The ideal size for a single adult crested gecko is a 20-gallon tank. However, if you plan on keeping more than one, you will need a larger tank. The enclosure should have a secure lid to prevent your gecko from escaping and to keep out other pets.
Inside the enclosure, you will need to provide some hiding places for your crested gecko. You can use natural cork bark, branches, or artificial plants to create a suitable hiding spot. You will also need to provide a substrate for your gecko to live on. Paper towels, reptile carpet, or coconut fiber are all good options.
Heating and Lighting
Crested geckos are nocturnal and do not require UVB lighting. However, they do need a heat source to maintain their body temperature. You can use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter to provide warmth. The temperature inside the enclosure should be between 72-80°F during the day and no lower than 65°F at night.
Food and Water
Crested geckos are omnivores and require a balanced diet of insects and fruit. You can feed your gecko a commercial crested gecko diet or a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. You can also offer fruit such as mashed banana or baby food.
Your crested gecko will also need a water source. You can use a shallow dish or a misting system to provide water. Make sure to change the water daily and clean the dish regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Humidity
Crested geckos require a humid environment to thrive. The humidity inside the enclosure should be between 50-80%. You can achieve this by misting the enclosure with water several times a day. You can also use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels.
Accessories
There are several accessories you can add to your crested gecko’s enclosure to make it more enjoyable for them. You can add a climbing branch, a hammock, or a feeding ledge to provide different areas for your gecko to explore. You can also add a background to the enclosure to create a more natural look.
Cleaning
Cleaning your crested gecko’s enclosure is essential to maintain their health. You should spot clean the enclosure every day by removing any feces or uneaten food. Once a month, you should do a thorough cleaning of the enclosure by removing all the substrate, cleaning the tank, and replacing the substrate.
Healthcare
Crested geckos are generally healthy pets, but they can still get sick. You should take your gecko to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles for a check-up at least once a year. You should also monitor your gecko’s behavior and appearance daily to ensure they are healthy.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Crested Gecko
Pros:
– Crested geckos are easy to care for and do not require a lot of space.
– They are quiet and do not make noise.
– They are docile and can be handled with care.
– They are unique and have distinct personalities.
Cons:
– They are nocturnal and may not be active during the day.
– They can be sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
– They may require live insects as part of their diet.
– They can live up to 20 years, so they are a long-term commitment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, caring for a crested gecko requires some effort, but it is a rewarding experience. By providing a suitable enclosure, heating and lighting, food and water, humidity, accessories, cleaning, and healthcare, you can ensure your gecko lives a happy and healthy life. The pros and cons of owning a crested gecko should also be considered before making the decision to get one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crested geckos are popular pets due to their easy care and unique appearance. If you are considering getting a crested gecko, it is important to know what they need in order to thrive. Here are some frequently asked questions about what you need for a crested gecko.
What size enclosure does a crested gecko need?
A crested gecko needs an enclosure that is at least 18 inches tall, 12 inches wide, and 18 inches deep. This will provide enough space for the gecko to climb, hide, and explore. Many people choose to use a terrarium with a screen top and front-opening doors for easy access. It is important to provide plenty of hiding spots and climbing opportunities, such as branches and plants.
When selecting an enclosure, it is also important to consider the temperature and humidity requirements of a crested gecko. The enclosure should be kept between 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The humidity should be between 50-80%, which can be achieved through misting the enclosure daily and providing a water dish.
What do crested geckos eat?
Crested geckos are omnivores, which means they eat both insects and fruit. A good diet for a crested gecko includes commercially available crested gecko diet, insects such as crickets or mealworms, and fruit such as mashed bananas or baby food. It is important to provide a variety of food options and to dust the insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements.
Young crested geckos should be fed every day, while adults can be fed every other day. It is important to remove any uneaten food within a few hours to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
What kind of lighting does a crested gecko need?
Crested geckos do not require UVB lighting, but they do need a light source that provides a natural day/night cycle. A low-wattage bulb or LED can be used to provide a 12-hour light cycle during the day, followed by 12 hours of darkness. It is important to avoid bright lights at night as this can disrupt their sleep.
In addition to a light source, it is important to provide a heat source such as a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter. This will help maintain the proper temperature gradient within the enclosure.
How often should a crested gecko be handled?
Crested geckos can be handled regularly, but it is important to be gentle and avoid grabbing the tail as they can drop it as a defense mechanism. It is recommended to handle them for short periods of time, no more than 10-15 minutes at a time, a few times a week. It is also important to wash hands before and after handling to prevent the spread of bacteria.
It is important to note that some crested geckos may not enjoy being handled and it is important to respect their boundaries.
What kind of substrate should be used in a crested gecko enclosure?
There are several options for substrate in a crested gecko enclosure, including coconut fiber, orchid bark, or paper towels. Avoid using sand or gravel as this can cause impaction if ingested. It is important to spot clean the substrate daily and change it completely every 2-3 months.
It is also important to provide a moist hide filled with moist substrate to help maintain proper humidity and aid in shedding.
Crested Gecko Care Guide 2021 | EVERYTHING You Need To Know
In conclusion, if you’re considering getting a crested gecko as a pet, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary items to keep them happy and healthy. Firstly, you’ll need a suitable terrarium that is the right size for your gecko. Secondly, you’ll need to provide a variety of plants and hides for your gecko to explore and feel secure in. Lastly, you’ll need to provide a balanced diet of insects and fruit to ensure your gecko receives the right nutrients.
By meeting these requirements, you’ll be setting your crested gecko up for a happy and healthy life. With the right care, your gecko can live for up to 20 years, so it’s worth investing in the right equipment and spending time learning how to properly care for your new pet. Remember to do plenty of research and consult with a veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns. With the right care and attention, your crested gecko will become a beloved member of your family.
