Crested Gecko
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== Introduction == | == Introduction == | ||
| - | Crested geckos are rain forest dwellers, found in New Caledonia. Originally they were considered extinct, but in 1994 they were rediscovered. Since then they've become readily available on the market, making a great pet due to the ability to handle, few requirements and how they rarely bite. | + | [[Image:launch_ready.jpg|thumb|left|Photo by [http://www.thereptilefile.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=64 prism_wolf]]]Crested geckos are rain forest dwellers, found in New Caledonia. Originally they were considered extinct, but in 1994 they were rediscovered. Since then they've become readily available on the market, making a great pet due to the ability to handle, few requirements and how they rarely bite. |
== Difficulty == | == Difficulty == | ||
| - | + | Crested geckos are one of the easier species of geckos to keep. They do not require heat, but need a tall enclosure and a reasonable amount of humidity. Compared to other geckos they are also cheaper to maintain, due to their diet (crickets and crested gecko diet) as well as not requiring much electricity. | |
== Basic Info == | == Basic Info == | ||
=== Size === | === Size === | ||
| - | + | Crested geckos are around 9 inches from head to tail tip. | |
=== Lifespan === | === Lifespan === | ||
| - | + | Since crested geckos were recently found in 1996, their lifespan has not been determined. It is believed that they live 10 to 20 years. | |
=== Handling === | === Handling === | ||
=== Substrate === | === Substrate === | ||
| - | + | Juveniles and new arrivals are best housed on paper towels to monitor for any problems. | |
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| + | Reptile bark and cypress mulch are two options for adults, as they help retain humidity, which is needed with a crested gecko. | ||
=== Temperature === | === Temperature === | ||
=== Lighting === | === Lighting === | ||
| - | + | Crested geckos are nocturnal, therefore they do not technically need lighting. Some people will choose to use red lights in the evening to view the gecko. | |
== Feeding == | == Feeding == | ||
== Advanced == | == Advanced == | ||
=== Sexing === | === Sexing === | ||
| - | + | Sexing is difficult, especially in juvenile crested geckos. Males have a large, prominent hemipenile bulge, as well as preanal pores. Females lack the bulge, which makes it difficult to tell the difference until almost a year old. | |
== Conclusion == | == Conclusion == | ||
| - | + | Crested geckos are a great beginner gecko. Their antics are endearing and the way they fling themselves from place to place just adds to the cuteness factor. They don't require a lot of room making them great for smaller homes and apartments. | |
== References == | == References == | ||
=== Websites === | === Websites === | ||
| - | + | * http://www.pangeareptile.com/id52.htm | |
| + | * http://www.thegeckospot.com/crestedcareindex.html | ||
=== Books === | === Books === | ||
| - | + | * Rhacodactylus - By Philippe de Vosjoli, Frank Fast and Allen Repashy | |
| + | * Crested Geckos Manual - By: Philippe de Vosjoli | ||
| + | * Crested Geckos & Relatives - By RD Bartlett | ||
| + | * Crested Geckos In Captivity - By: Robbie Hamper | ||
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| + | '''Many of these books can be found on Amazon for very reasonable prices. Use the Amazon link on the main forum pages and help to contribute to the upkeep of all that is good here.''' | ||
== Author == | == Author == | ||
