Crested geckos (Rhacodactylus ciliatus) are a reptile species native to New Caledonia in the Southwest Pacific. As far as reptiles or even other geckos are concerned, crested geckos are a very easy pet to keep. In captivity, they require a small amount of space, a simple diet, and little to no additional heat or light. They thrive at a comfortable indoor temperature in the 70s, with a drop into the mid 60s at night being acceptable. Easily cared for with a daily misting and feeding with a commercial powdered diet requiring no insects, crested geckos are a good starter reptile and are even a pet for non-reptile lovers. And should you take on the challenge of breeding, crested geckos are a great starter species for breeders just starting out. Be sure to do your research up front!

With a lifespan of 30 years or more, a crested gecko makes an affordable and long-lived pet reptile. Because they breed easily and readily in captivity, you can purchase one for around $60 for a standard olive colored male, with females typically running more. Buying an unsexed juvenile gives you the opportunity to watch them grow from a scant 3 grams to a whopping adult that can top 60 grams.

Crested geckos are also known as “eyelash geckos” in pet stores because of the beautiful spikes over their eyes. They do not have eyelids, so they aren’t really eyelashes at all. They have crests along their heads as well, with some specimens displaying spikes along their backs as well.  These “pinstripe” geckos are one of the more popular traits that are selectively bred for in this species.

Unlike most other geckos, crested geckos come in a variety of color patterns or “morphs”. Highly sought after are vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges as well as dark black or chocolate. Some have patches of different colors called “harlequins” which can come in combinations such as red and cream, red and orange, yellow and cream and more. A more basic but lovely morph are tigers: a base color with black or red/orange stripes. There are many crested gecko breeders that specialize in improving color, markings and patterns of crested geckos. We are Arizona crested gecko breeders (based in Phoenix) who have taken on such a task! Take a look around our site and view our links for more information on these gorgeous geckos!

Crested Gecko Care
Crested Gecko Supplies
Crested Gecko Nutrition
Crested Gecko Health
Crested Gecko Enclosures & Setup
Crested Gecko Colors & Morphs