Crested Geckos

Crested geckos are a type of lizard from the island of New Caledonia. Their other names are: New Caledonian Crested Gecko, Guichenot's Giant Gecko, Eyelash Gecko, or their scientific name: Rhacodactylus ciliatus.

Crested geckos were thought to be extinct until they were "rediscovered" in 1994.

Crested geckos have hair-like spikes that run along their eyes (hence the name "eyelash gecko"), down their back. It has a crest that runs from each eye to the tail. The toes and tip of the tail of this lizard have tiny hairs called setae. The setae are divided into hundreds of tiny, microscopic hairs. This is believed to be what geckos use to cling to vertical surfaces. Each toe has a claw that helps the gecko cling to surfaces the setae cannot, such as ceilings.

New Caledonian Crested Geckos come in a large variety of colors, called morphs, that include red, brown, gray, orange, yellow, and sometimes even pink or purple. Different geckos have different patterns on their backs including: spots, tiger-like stripes, and straight stripes.

The crested gecko has no eyelids, and uses its tongue to lick the film over its eyes. These lizards also have long tails (the tails are usually the same length as the body) that can break off as a natural defense against predators. Unlike many other geckos, however, their tails will not grow back. The lack of tail has not changed the personality or health of these geckos, it only changes their beautiful looks.

Crested geckos are nocturnal, which means they sleep during the day and are active at night. Crested geckos are also omnivores, meaning that they eat both plant and animal matter. In the wild, crested geckos eat rotten or decaying fruit as well as crickets.

The crested gecko is a tree dwelling lizard, so the habitat should include lots of plants, trees, and hiding places for the gecko.

These geckos can be tamed to be held, and it's easier to train them while they're juveniles. They can grow to be up to 8 inches long, the tail making up half of the length. The geckos also shed, and they usually eat the skin once they're done shedding.

Crested geckos are a great pet to have for the beginner reptile owner.