Description: These geckos were once thought to be extinct but in 1994 they were re-discovered in New Caledonia, which is located in the temperate zone. Nearly all are captive bred now and come in a variety of specially bred patterns and colors (usually a shade of red, orange, yellow or dark to nearly black). They are nocturnal and arboreal, having adhesive toe pads and an odd adhesive pad on the tip of the slender tail (the tail will not re-grow if dropped). The head is large and diamond-shaped with frilly scales running down the length of the head and body on each side. Total length is about 8" and they may live up to 15 or 20 years if cared for properly. These cool looking, hardy geckos are easy to care for and thrive in captivity. A popular pet that can become tame enough to enjoy being handled. Adult males that have not been raised together may be aggressive toward each other and should not be kept in the same tank.

Temperature: Daytime 70° to 78°F with a 5°F or so drop at night. Temps over 80°F for long periods are not tolerated well, even for basking. Supplemental heating is usually not needed. Seasonal variations in temperature should be allowed to occur.

Humidity: Moderate, 50 to 80%. Frequent misting may be required.

Lighting: UV is not needed. Plant lights may be needed for live plants. A low-wattage bulb may used to provide a basking area, be sure that the warmest spot does not get over 85°F or so. A dim night light is useful for viewing nocturnal activities.

Feeding: Omnivorous. Young ones should be given plenty of insects in their diet. As they reach maturity, fruit becomes the main staple diet. Some people never feed them insects at all. Powdered gecko food is commercially available and is formulated to provide them with a balanced diet. Fruit baby food with vitamin/mineral supplements added once or twice a week, is also good. Meat based baby food can also be mixed in if insects are not given.
A shallow water dish should be provided but most will only drink by licking up water droplets. It is important to mist the enclosure.

Habitat: A 20-gallon will work for 2 or 3 cresties but a larger, taller tank would be more suitable. Use a screen top for ventilation and set it up as a savanna forest habitat with sturdy plants and lots of climbing branches. Hiding places are also important.

Cycling: Reduce the temperature to between 50° and 60°F for 3 or 4 months and provide less food.

Sexing: Sex can be determined at around 4 to 6 months of age, when the adult colors start to show. Males have a distinct hemipenal bulge just under the tail base, females have a small bump.

Breeding: Be sure that the females are well fed and give them extra calcium to aid in egg production. Breeding starts with higher temps and increased humidity. These are very prolific breeders. 10 to 20 clutches with 2 eggs each are laid, buried in a moist area of the enclosure. An open container with some moist substrate can also be used.
Eggs can be left in place or removed to incubate at 70° to 80°F on vermiculite or another medium. Keep the medium slightly moist by adding water as needed. Be careful not to get the eggs wet. Hatching takes place in about 65 to 80 days. Hatchlings are small and can be fed pinhead crickets and baby food. It is helpful to put the prey items in a tall bowl. Sexual maturity is reached in about 9 months.

ENJOY YOUR PET LIFE FORMS, Dave & Donna