Natural History

The crested gecko is a small, arboreal lizard native to the dense rainforests of New Caledonia, a cluster of islands in the southwest Pacific. Known for their fringed crests extending from their eyes down the sides of their head and along much of their back, these geckos have adapted remarkably to life in a humid, elevated environment. Their life cycle begins when adults engage in seasonal breeding, typically during the warmer, humid months following the region’s rainy season. After a brief courtship, females lay small clutches of two eggs at a time, often in moist soil or leaf litter. These eggs incubate for an average of 60 to 120 days, depending on temperature and humidity conditions. Hatchlings typically emerge at just over 2 inches in length and grow steadily, reaching sexual maturity around 12 to 18 months of age. In the wild, their lifespan is generally estimated at 10 to 15 years, though they can live longer in captivity with optimal care.

Crested geckos are primarily nocturnal, becoming active at dusk and using the cover of night to forage and explore. During the day, they remain hidden in foliage or within tree hollows to avoid predators and regulate their body temperature. Their prehensile tails and toe pads allow for expert climbing through branches, vines, and leaves—a crucial adaptation in their arboreal habitat. While they are not considered highly territorial, males may become aggressive toward one another when competing for mates. In contrast, juveniles and females are usually more tolerant of others, though they still prefer personal space. Their feeding behavior is opportunistic and omnivorous; they consume a diet that includes overripe fruit, nectar, and a wide range of insects such as crickets, roaches, and moths. Crested geckos rely on both their keen vision in low light and sensitive olfactory cues to locate food.

When threatened, crested geckos exhibit several defensive responses. They may perform a sudden, unpredictable jump from branches, relying on their agility to evade capture. Another common defense is tail autonomy—the ability to shed the tail when grasped by a predator. However, unlike many other gecko species, once lost, the tail does not regenerate. Instead, tailless adults often adapt well and exhibit normal behaviors, although a tailed crested gecko uses its tail extensively for balance and gripping surfaces.

In their ecosystem, crested geckos play an integral role in maintaining balance within the forest canopy. As both predator and prey, they occupy a mid-level position in the food web. By consuming insects, particularly pest species that might damage vegetation or spread disease, they provide natural pest control. Their diet of soft fruits and nectar may also assist in limited seed dispersal and pollination, although this role is less substantial compared to birds or bats. In turn, they are preyed upon by larger reptiles, birds, and mammals, making them a vital food source for several native predators. Their muted coloration, which ranges from tans and reds to olive and gray tones with various patterns, provides effective camouflage among bark and foliage—an evolutionary trait that enhances their survival in the wild.

Understanding the complex biology and behavior of the crested gecko helps herpetoculturists replicate their natural conditions in captivity, ensuring the animal's physical and psychological health. Appreciating their ecological contributions and environmental adaptations also enhances efforts toward habitat preservation and responsible pet ownership.

Conservation Status

The Crested Gecko is currently classified as “Vulnerable” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This status indicates that the species is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild due to ongoing population declines and a restricted geographic range. Naturally occurring only on the southern portions of New Caledonia, this gecko’s wild population is fragmented and limited to moist, forested areas. The “Vulnerable” classification also reflects concerns that future habitat loss or environmental changes could accelerate their decline if proper protections are not maintained. Although their presence in the pet trade has expanded globally due to captive breeding, the IUCN primarily evaluates wild populations, which remain under increasing pressure.

Several key threats have contributed to the species’ vulnerable status. Habitat loss is the primary concern, particularly deforestation linked to logging, agriculture, and urban expansion in New Caledonia. As these forested regions are cleared or degraded, native plants and microhabitats critical to the Crested Gecko’s survival disappear, reducing the available range and fragmenting populations. Invasive species also play a significant role in their decline. The introduction of predatory mammals such as cats and rats has led to increased predation, especially of juvenile geckos. Additionally, invasive fire ants pose a threat by attacking eggs and newly hatched individuals. While overcollection for the pet trade was once a concern, the species has been protected from international trade under local and international regulations for many years, and nearly all Crested Geckos in captivity today are captive-bred.

Climate change presents another growing hazard to the Crested Gecko's long-term survival. As global temperatures and precipitation patterns shift, the humid and temperate microclimates required by this gecko may become less stable, particularly in areas already impacted by deforestation. Prolonged droughts or temperature extremes could affect the availability of food sources such as insects and flowering plants, hinder reproductive cycles, and increase mortality rates. Sporadic disease outbreaks, while not currently a primary threat, remain a concern for already-stressed populations, especially if facilitated by the introduction of non-native pathogens through human activity.

Conservation efforts for the Crested Gecko are ongoing and multifaceted. The species is protected under local New Caledonian law, which prohibits the export or collection of wild individuals without proper authorization. Critical habitat within southern New Caledonia is now included in nature reserves and public conservation areas intended to limit further habitat loss and preserve biodiversity. These reserves not only support the Crested Gecko but also protect several other endemic species. Habitat restoration projects are also underway to rehabilitate degraded forest areas, particularly those affected by invasive plant species or past agricultural use.

Captive breeding has played a critical role in reducing pressure on wild populations. Since the species’ rediscovery in the mid-1990s, responsible captive breeding programs have exploded in popularity worldwide, particularly among reptile breeders in North America and Europe. These programs have produced a stable and genetically diverse population for the pet trade, greatly reducing the incentive to harvest individuals from the wild. Some breeding facilities also participate in genetic monitoring and exchange programs to maintain healthy captive lines. Though there are currently no organized reintroduction efforts, the widespread success in maintaining a self-sustaining captive population could provide a valuable safeguard if wild numbers fall precipitously in the future.

Reptile keepers should be aware that while the Crested Gecko is abundant in captivity, the species remains at risk in its natural habitat. Understanding the ecological pressures this gecko faces and supporting conservation-conscious practices—such as ensuring the purchase of captive-bred individuals and contributing to habitat preservation efforts—can help protect this unique species for generations to come.

Native Range

The crested gecko is native to the southern portion of the island of New Caledonia, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia. Its natural distribution is restricted to the main island of Grande Terre and a few smaller surrounding islets. Within Grande Terre, wild populations are found predominantly in the southern and southeastern provinces, including areas such as Blue River Provincial Park and Mount Dzumac. This limited distribution makes the crested gecko a geographically restricted species with a naturally fragmented range. 

In terms of macrohabitat, the crested gecko is most commonly associated with humid, subtropical rainforest ecosystems. These forests are characterized by dense canopy cover, abundant vegetation at multiple strata, and a high rate of precipitation throughout the year. Though not considered truly arboreal to the extent of some rainforest reptiles, crested geckos show a strong preference for elevated microhabitats. They are most frequently found in mid-level vegetation such as tree trunks, branches, shrubs, and bamboo thickets, typically between 3 and 10 feet above ground level. During daylight hours, they tend to seek shelter under loose bark, between overlapping leaves, or in hollow plant structures, emerging at dusk to forage and explore.

Climatically, the native habitat of the crested gecko is warm and humid year-round, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 72 and 80°F and nighttime lows between 65 and 72°F. The region does not experience true seasonal temperature extremes, but subtle seasonal shifts do occur. The warm-wet season typically runs from November to April, with heavy rain and elevated humidity levels often reaching 70 to 90 percent. The cooler-dry season, from May to October, is marked by decreased precipitation and slightly reduced humidity, commonly ranging from 60 to 75 percent. These seasonal fluctuations can influence activity levels and breeding behavior in the wild. High humidity is critical for skin hydration and successful shedding, while consistently moderate temperatures support metabolic functions and immune health.

Crested geckos are primarily found at elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 3,000 feet. They are most commonly encountered at mid-elevation zones between 300 and 1,500 feet, where forest structure remains dense and vertical stratification of vegetation provides optimal cover and climbing surfaces. These areas typically offer stable temperature conditions and better moisture retention, which are crucial to this reptile's physiological requirements.

Several environmental factors are particularly important for the survival of this species. A key component of their preferred habitat is readily available moisture, which supports hydration through skin uptake and helps maintain the high ambient humidity levels they require. Access to water droplets on foliage and from nightly dew is integral to their drinking behavior, as they rarely utilize standing water sources. Vegetation density also plays an essential role, providing shelter from predators, foraging opportunities for small invertebrates, and suitable egg-laying sites such as moist leaf litter or loose soil near the base of plants. The presence of semi-soft substrates including moss, decaying wood, and organic debris is particularly important for juvenile and gravid females. Furthermore, crested geckos show a preference for terrain that includes gentle slopes and limited rocky exposure, often avoiding open, sunlit areas or heavily exposed patches of ground. Their dependency on shaded, humidity-retentive microhabitats makes them highly sensitive to deforestation and habitat fragmentation.

Behavior

Crested geckos are primarily crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. In their native environment, which consists of the humid forests of New Caledonia, they spend the cooler, low-light hours climbing through shrubs and low canopy vegetation to forage and explore. Activity tends to increase during overcast days or after rainfall, when humidity peaks and daytime temperatures remain mild. During the warmer months, their activity level rises due to increased metabolism, especially during the breeding season, which typically occurs between late spring and early autumn. In colder months, particularly when nighttime temperatures naturally dip below 60°F for extended periods, these geckos may enter a state of brumation in the wild, reducing activity, feeding less, and resting in hidden retreats.

Socially, crested geckos are solitary reptiles. In the wild, individuals maintain separate home ranges, with limited overlap unless during the breeding season. They do not form permanent social groups, and interactions between adults are usually limited to mating encounters or occasional disputes over territory and resources. Males are particularly territorial and will engage in aggressive behaviors such as chasing, posturing, and biting when encountering rivals. During courtship, males may approach females with head bobs and tail twitching; mating itself can be rough, involving neck biting for restraint. There is no parental care post-oviposition. Once the female has laid her eggs—usually hidden in moist leaf litter or soft soil—she abandons them. Hatchlings are independent from birth.

Crested geckos are highly responsive to environmental stimuli. Their behavior is influenced significantly by temperature, with optimal activity observed when ambient temperatures range between 72°F and 78°F. At temperatures above 82°F, they display thermoregulatory avoidance behaviors such as hiding in shade or burrowing into cooler substrate. Light cycles also govern their circadian rhythms. While they do not rely heavily on vision for daily tasks—having eyes adapted to low-light conditions—they are sensitive to changes in ambient light, which cue their active and rest periods. Sudden humidity drops may result in decreased activity and poor shedding, whereas elevated humidity in early evening hours stimulates natural foraging behavior. In response to predators or perceived threats, crested geckos often freeze or perform a rapid tail wave, which can function as a distraction or deterrent. If further threatened, they can initiate caudal autotomy—voluntarily dropping their tail to escape, although the tail does not regenerate in this species. Detection of prey, conspecifics, and predators is achieved primarily through chemoreception, using their tongue and highly sensitive vomeronasal organ, as well as motion detection supported by their large, lidless eyes.

One of the most distinctive behavioral traits of crested geckos is their method of locomotion. They are adept climbers, possessing lamellae—or specialized toe pads—on each digit that allow them to adhere to vertical and even inverted surfaces. In addition to standard quadrupedal moving, they frequently use leaping to move between branches or escape threats. This jumping ability is particularly advanced among geckos and is facilitated by strong hind limbs and precise muscle coordination. When startled, they can vault substantial distances. Another unique behavior is their occasional vocalization, which ranges from quiet chirps to barking sounds, often emitted during mating interactions or when handled roughly. Thermoregulation is behaviorally driven; they move between warmer basking areas and cooler shelters rather than relying on direct sun exposure.

In captivity, behavioral patterns remain broadly similar, though certain differences are often seen due to the controlled conditions. Most captive individuals maintain a crepuscular activity rhythm, but with exposure to artificial lighting and stable temperatures, a crested gecko may adjust its patterns based on the habitat’s light cycle. Captive individuals are generally less aggressive, especially when housed singly, though same-sex pairs—especially males—will often become combative if kept together. Feeding responses can differ in captivity; wild geckos hunt a wide array of invertebrates and consume fruit found in their environment, while captive diets usually consist of commercially prepared fruit-insect blends. This can reduce hunting behavior, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle unless active enrichment is provided. Stress responses in captive animals may include tail drop due to frequent or rough handling, and defensive vocalizations are more regularly observed in animals not habituated to human interaction. To maintain behavioral health, enrichment elements such as foliage, varied climbing structures, changing scents, and occasional live prey should be introduced to simulate natural challenges and encourage natural behaviors in the captive environment.

Captivity Requirements

Enclosure Design

Crested Geckos are arboreal reptiles native to the humid forests of New Caledonia, and their enclosure must reflect the vertical complexity of their natural environment. For juveniles, a minimum enclosure size of 12 x 12 x 18 inches is acceptable, though larger is always better to encourage physical development and exploratory behavior. Adults require more vertical space; a single adult thrives in an enclosure measuring at least 18 x 18 x 24 inches. When housing multiple geckos (only when temperaments allow and never housing two males together), a larger space is essential to reduce stress and competition. Glass terrariums with front-opening doors are ideal, offering easy access, good ventilation, and room for proper vertical orientation. Avoid screen cages that excessively lose humidity and heat unless kept in a controlled environment.

Strong, secure enclosures are critical, as Crested Geckos are surprisingly agile climbers. Any gaps in doors or ventilation panels must be secured to prevent escapes. The enclosure should have multiple levels, using cork bark slabs, natural wood branches, and artificial or live plants to provide climbing opportunities. Vines and suction-cup platforms create additional vertical territory. Strategically place at least two hides—one in a cooler section and one closer to the basking zone—to give the gecko options based on its thermal needs and help reduce stress. The enclosure should mimic the dense, foliage-rich understory in which Crested Geckos naturally thrive.

Lighting and Heating

Though Crested Geckos are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, they still benefit from a well-designed lighting setup that supports their circadian rhythm and metabolic health. While they do not need intense basking lighting like diurnal reptiles, low-level UVB exposure has been shown to enhance calcium metabolism and overall health. A 5-7% UVB linear tube bulb is ideal for this species, mounted outside the enclosure if using mesh, or inside if glass-topped, at a distance of no more than 12 inches from resting surfaces. Use a reflector fixture to maximize UVB penetration and direct it away from shaded areas so the gecko can regulate its exposure. Lights should follow a 12-hour on/off cycle, adjusted slightly to reflect natural seasonal variations, such as 13 hours in summer and 11 in winter. 

Because they naturally encounter mild temperatures, Crested Geckos require a thermal gradient rather than intense heat. The ambient temperature in the enclosure should remain between 72°F and 78°F during the day, ideally not exceeding 80°F for extended periods. The basking area, which can be created with a low-wattage ceramic heat emitter or radiant heat panel, should not exceed 80°F and must be monitored closely using a thermostat to prevent overheating. At night, temperatures can safely drop to 65°F without issue, and should ideally not fall below 62°F. Avoid the use of heat rocks altogether, as they produce localized hot spots that can cause burns and do not safely or effectively heat the environment. All heating elements must be controlled with a reliable digital thermostat and monitored using an accurate probe-style thermometer placed at gecko height.

Substrate and Enrichment

A substrate that mimics the humid forest floor is essential for supporting humidity, providing traction, and encouraging natural behavior. ReptiChip's TropicalBase or ReptiEarth, provides excellent moisture retention, promotes digging, and poses a minimal risk of impaction when spot-cleaned regularly and maintained correctly. Using a 2 to 4-inch base layer allows for some natural burrowing behavior and helps stabilize humidity levels. Never use reptile carpet, sand, or calcisand, as these pose hygienic and ingestion hazards.

Enrichment is crucial for the mental and physical well-being of Crested Geckos. These geckos are agile jumpers and arboreal climbers, which makes the inclusion of multi-level branches, vines, and secured plants a necessity. Use natural bamboo, cork rounds, grapewood, and sturdy artificial foliage to create a three-dimensional habitat that encourages exploration. Hiding places are essential—at least two should be provided per gecko, with options at different heights. These hides can be in the form of half logs, cork bark, or dense bundles of foliage. Adding feeding ledges at different heights encourages arboreal foraging behavior. Regular changes to the layout and inclusion of natural items such as sticks, moss clumps, or non-toxic leaves stimulate curiosity and reduce stress-related behaviors.

Humidity and Hydration

Crested Geckos require moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 80% throughout the day. Humidity should peak in the evening and overnight when the geckos are most active since they often drink dew droplets formed on leaves and enclosure surfaces. This can be maintained through a combination of daily manual misting and automated foggers or misters if climate conditions vary widely. Light misting in the morning keeps the humidity from plummeting during the day; a heavier misting in the evening simulates natural conditions more accurately. Be cautious of excessive standing water or oversaturation, which can lead to mold or bacterial growth. 

To retain humidity, substrates like ReptiEarth are extremely effective, particularly when combined with partial coverage of live plants and a moisture-retaining base layer. Glass or PVC enclosures with limited mesh exposure will hold humidity better than open or screen-based terrariums. Use a high-quality digital hygrometer with at least two probes—one near the substrate and another at mid-height—to monitor daily variations accurately.

Although Crested Geckos do not often drink from still water, a shallow water dish should always be available and cleaned daily. The dish should be placed near foliage to encourage incidental discovery during exploration. Observations indicate that most hydration comes from licking water droplets from enclosure surfaces after misting, so it is critical to aim misting at broad leaves and climbing platforms. Consistent hydration not only supports organ function but plays a key role in healthy shedding. Dehydration can lead to issues such as retained shed and metabolic disorders, so establishing a routine that includes visual and environmental monitoring is essential for responsible husbandry.

Diet & Supplementation

In the wild, the diet of the crested gecko consists primarily of a variety of invertebrates and plant-based materials, classifying it as an omnivore. Native to the humid forests of New Caledonia, this species is known to forage for soft-bodied insects such as moths, crickets, and small beetles, which provide essential proteins and lipids. Additionally, crested geckos consume a significant amount of overripe fruit, nectar, and pollen. Figs, bananas, and papayas are among the fruits they opportunistically eat when available in the wild, and their attraction to sugary substances may also lead them to consume tree sap or flower exudates. While not obligate frugivores, their digestive systems are adapted to process simple plant sugars alongside animal-based protein.

Crested geckos are generally crepuscular to nocturnal foragers, relying primarily on visual and chemical cues to locate food items. Insects are located through movement and scent, and fruits are identified by smell and familiarity within their home range. Unlike many predatory reptiles, crested geckos do not possess venom or constriction mechanisms. Instead, they capture prey using a darting motion followed by quick biting, aided by a broad, slightly sticky tongue useful for licking nectar, soft fruit, and small prey cleanly off surfaces. Tooth structure is not adapted for chewing but rather for gripping and tearing, and prey is ingested whole or in large chunks. Their relatively slow metabolism and arboreal lifestyle support moderately paced feeding behaviors rather than rapid, high-energy hunts.

Diet varies with age and environmental conditions. Juvenile crested geckos consume proportionally more animal protein than adults, as growing bodies require elevated levels of protein and calcium for development. Insect prey plays a crucial role during this life stage, and regular access to appropriately sized live insects (such as pinhead crickets or small dubia roaches) is especially important. As they mature, their diet shifts toward a greater reliance on fruit and commercial diets formulated for their nutritional needs. Seasonal changes in the wild restrict the availability of fruits and insects, naturally reducing feeding frequency during cooler, drier months. This pattern may be mirrored in captivity if environmental parameters are adjusted seasonally, although provided the right temperatures and photoperiod, captive feeding schedules can remain more consistent.

Captive crested geckos thrive on a specialized diet consisting of commercially prepared powdered foods mixed with water to form a paste. These foods are designed to replicate the gecko’s natural intake of fruit sugars, protein, calcium, and other trace nutrients. Reputable formulations are balanced for all life stages and include vital elements such as calcium, vitamin D3, and amino acids. High-quality commercial diets generally eliminate the need for additional supplementation if used as the primary food source. However, supplemental feeding with gut-loaded, calcium-dusted insects is strongly encouraged one to two times per week, especially for juveniles, breeding females, or geckos recovering from illness or stress.

One of the most common feeding issues in captivity is food refusal, often caused by inadequate temperatures, stress, or lack of dietary variety. Ensuring proper husbandry, including ambient nighttime temperatures of at least 68°F and daytime highs between 72°F to 78°F with appropriate humidity, supports healthy feeding behavior. Offering a rotation of flavors in commercial diets and introducing live feeder insects such as crickets, dubia roaches, or black soldier fly larvae can encourage natural feeding responses. Conversely, overfeeding, particularly when live insects are offered too frequently or sugary fruits are given excessively, can lead to obesity and hepatic lipidosis. Malnutrition may result from feeding low-quality diets, neglecting insects altogether, or failing to provide calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation.

To maintain natural feeding behavior, enrichment techniques can be implemented. Feeder insects can be allowed to move freely in the enclosure or offered in feeder dishes that require the gecko to approach and hunt actively. Hanging feeding cups mimicking tree fruits or placing small amounts of fruit-based diet in elevated locations can stimulate arboreal foraging. Feeding should occur in the evening to coincide with the gecko’s natural activity period. Feeding frequency should align with age and health: hatchlings and juveniles require daily meals, while adults generally do well on a schedule of three to four feedings per week.

By understanding and replicating the diverse and behaviorally rich feeding habits of crested geckos in the wild, keepers can ensure optimal health and longevity for animals kept in captivity. Balanced nutrition, behavioral enrichment, and proper environmental conditions all work together to support a naturalistic and effective dietary routine.

Reproduction

Crested geckos typically reach reproductive maturity between 12 and 18 months of age. Males may become fertile slightly earlier but should also be monitored for healthy body condition before breeding attempts. Sexual dimorphism in crested geckos is subtle but present; males develop visible preanal pores and hemipenal bulges at the base of the tail, while females lack these features. Prior to mating, both sexes may demonstrate pre-mating behaviors such as increased activity, vocalizations, and scent marking. Courtship involves the male approaching the female while displaying rapid tail twitching and gentle biting of the neck region, a normal part of gecko mating behavior. Successful copulation is typically observed after these behaviors with the male aligning himself alongside the female for insemination.

Environmental cues play a critical role in stimulating breeding activity. In their natural habitat, crested geckos experience seasonal changes that include variations in temperature, humidity, and daylight hours. In captivity, breeders often mimic these conditions by providing a cooling period during winter months, with daytime temperatures reduced to approximately 68–72°F and nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping into the low 60s for 4 to 8 weeks. This brumation-like state is followed by a gradual increase in temperatures back to their typical range of 74–78°F during the day and around 68°F at night. Along with this thermal fluctuation, adjustments to light cycles—extending daylight hours to 12–14 hours per day in the breeding season—can help stimulate reproductive readiness. Relative humidity levels should remain between 60% and 80% year-round but may be modestly increased through misting during the breeding season to mimic the onset of wetter conditions.

Crested geckos are oviparous, laying soft-shelled eggs typically two at a time. For successful breeding in captivity, pairs are often housed together temporarily in a controlled breeding enclosure. Continuous cohabitation is not generally recommended due to the risk of long-term stress, dominance behaviors, or injury. Ideal breeding enclosures are spacious enough to allow the female to escape if needed and should include multiple visual and physical barriers such as plants, cork bark, and climbing structures. A suitable nesting site is essential—this can be a small plastic container filled with a moist, but not waterlogged, substrate such as sphagnum moss or a ReptiEarth. Nesting boxes should be inspected regularly during the breeding season as females typically lay eggs every 4 to 6 weeks once cycling.

Breeding crested geckos in captivity may present challenges, particularly if pairs are incompatible. Incompatible individuals may display signs of aggression or chronic stress, including tail dropping, excessive hiding, or appetite loss. To avoid this, it’s advisable to introduce pairs gradually, perhaps starting with visual contact through barrier separation before direct interaction. Environmental stressors—such as incorrect temperatures, lack of privacy in the enclosure, or improper humidity—can also disrupt hormonal cycling and prevent ovulation or copulation. These issues are often resolved by ensuring stable environmental parameters and reducing disturbances to breeding animals. Nutritional state prior to breeding is another critical factor; females must have adequate calcium and energy reserves to support egg production and minimize issues such as egg binding. Pre-breeding conditioning with a balanced, vitamin-supplemented diet is highly recommended for both sexes, but especially for females.

Overall, successful breeding of crested geckos depends on replicating seasonal environmental cues, providing proper social and physical conditions for interaction, and ensuring the animals are in peak physical health. With meticulous attention to these factors, many keepers are able to maintain sustainable, healthy breeding colonies in captivity.

Incubation & Neonate Care

The Crested Gecko is an oviparous reptile, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. Female Crested Geckos typically reach sexual maturity between 12 and 18 months of age and begin producing clutches of two eggs roughly every 30 to 45 days during the breeding season, which may extend year-round in captivity under stable conditions. After successful copulation, the female will bury her eggs in a moist substrate, such as sphagnum moss or ReptiEarth, often choosing concealed locations like under logs or leaf litter within the enclosure. Once laid, the eggs should be carefully removed and transferred to an incubator to control environmental parameters critical for successful development.

Incubation of Crested Gecko eggs requires precise temperature and humidity control to ensure healthy embryonic development and maximize hatch rates. Optimal incubation temperatures range between 72°F and 78°F. Temperatures above 82°F are associated with increased deformities and embryonic mortality and should be avoided. Arguably a key aspect of Crested Gecko embryology is temperature-dependent sex determination. While not as extreme as in some reptiles, higher incubation temperatures around 79°F to 81°F tend to produce a greater ratio of males, while lower temperatures between 72°F and 75°F favor the development of females. Incubation humidity should be maintained consistently between 75% and 90%. The preferred incubation substrate is a moisture-retentive, sterile medium such as vermiculite or perlite, mixed at a 1:1 weight ratio with water. Eggs should be partially buried, spaced apart to prevent mold proliferation and allow for gas exchange.

The incubation period varies with temperature and can range from 60 to 120 days. At warmer temperatures, development is accelerated, whereas at cooler temperatures, the process is extended. Throughout incubation, eggs should be monitored weekly for signs of mold or collapse, which may indicate improper moisture levels or failed development. As hatching nears, a noticeable swelling of the egg may occur, and the shell may dent slightly before splitting. Hatchlings use a specialized egg tooth to break through the shell. No parental care is provided by the adults, and it is common for geckos in captivity to display neither protective nor aggressive behaviors toward their offspring. However, egg binding (dystocia) in females can occur if proper calcium supplementation or nesting conditions are inadequate, requiring prompt veterinary attention.

Upon hatching, neonates typically measure between 2.5 and 3.5 inches in total length, including the tail. They emerge fully developed and can become mobile within hours. The hatchlings are highly delicate and should be housed individually or in small groups with careful monitoring to minimize stress, aggression, and competition for food. Priority should be given to establishing appropriate environmental conditions. Enclosures should be small, well-ventilated, and escape-proof. Plastic tubs with air holes or small glass terrariums (approximately 12 inches long by 8 inches wide by 8 inches high) are suitable starter homes. Ideal ambient temperatures for neonates range from 72°F to 78°F, with a very mild nighttime drop to no less than 68°F. Exceeding 82°F can be harmful, particularly for young geckos. Humidity should be maintained at 60% to 80% with regular misting to prevent desiccation, but care should be taken to allow a drying period during the day to prevent respiratory issues.

Neonates typically shed their skin within the first few days of life and may eat the shed material. First feedings should occur within 3 to 5 days after hatching once the yolk reserve has been absorbed. A complete powdered diet specifically formulated for frugivorous gecko species is recommended, mixed with water to create a smooth paste. This should be offered every other day, and fresh water should be available at all times through misting or in a shallow, spill-proof dish. Fruit purees or mashed insect gut loads can be offered occasionally, and small, appropriately sized and gut-loaded feeder insects such as pinhead crickets or fruit flies can be introduced one to two times per week. Regular health checks should assess body condition, hydration status, and responsiveness. Common concerns in hatchlings include dehydration, retained shed, and poor feeding responses, often linked to inadequate husbandry.

Handling of neonates should be limited and gentle. Their fragile limbs and delicate skin are highly susceptible to stress and injury. If handling is necessary, it should be done over a soft surface in a calm environment. Early interactions should focus on building trust and minimizing escape attempts. With proper care and controlled environmental conditions, hatchling Crested Geckos typically grow rapidly and can reach juvenile size (4–5 inches in total length) by three to four months of age, at which point enclosures may be upgraded and care routines modified to accommodate their increasing activity levels and dietary needs.

Conclusion

Caring for crested geckos in captivity requires a holistic understanding of their unique biological, ecological, and behavioral traits. Their natural history—being crepuscular, arboreal, and adapted to a humid tropical environment—must shape every aspect of their care, from enclosure design to diet and breeding protocols. Their remarkable adaptability allows them to thrive in a well-maintained artificial habitat, yet they remain sensitive to fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and environmental enrichment. Meeting these physiological needs is essential for maintaining metabolic health, reproductive success, and longevity.

Crested geckos possess a diverse diet, relying on both arthropods and fruit-based nutrition, and this must be carefully replicated in captivity using balanced commercial formulations, gut-loaded live feeders, and dietary variety tailored to their life stage. Their prehensile limbs and strong climbing ability necessitate vertically oriented enclosures rich in complex structures to stimulate natural movement and exploration. Maintaining proper humidity not only supports hydration and shedding but also mimics the conditions that govern their activity patterns and reproductive cues in the wild. Understanding their breeding cycle and egg development is vital for keepers wishing to propagate this species responsibly and ethically.

Although widely bred and kept as pets, crested geckos remain vulnerable in their natural habitat. Threats such as deforestation, climate change, and invasive species continue to endanger wild populations. This disparity reinforces the importance of sourcing geckos from reputable, captive-bred lines and supporting conservation measures that protect the biodiversity of their native range in New Caledonia.

Ultimately, success in keeping crested geckos stems from a dedication to replicating their natural environment, understanding their behavioral cues, and prioritizing their long-term health and welfare. With informed care, these resilient yet sensitive reptiles not only survive in captivity—they flourish, providing keepers with rewarding, long-lived companions and deeper insights into the delicate balance of tropical forest ecosystems.