If you want a reptile that's hardy, handleable, and doesn't need complex heating or live-insect feeding, the crested gecko is hard to beat. Often called the perfect beginner reptile, it thrives at room temperature on a largely powdered diet. Here's everything a new owner needs.
Why Crested Geckos Are Beginner-Friendly
- They do well at normal room temperature, with no complex basking setup needed
- A complete powdered diet replaces (or supplements) live insects
- They're docile and tolerate gentle handling
- They're nocturnal and active in the evening, when most owners are home
The Enclosure
Crested geckos are arboreal; they climb, so height matters more than floor space.
- A single adult needs a minimum of 45 x 45 x 60cm (taller is better)
- Use a front-opening or tall terrarium with good ventilation
- Fill it with branches, cork bark, and foliage (live or artificial) for climbing and hiding
- House babies in smaller enclosures so they can find food easily
💡 Pro tip: Never house two males together; they will fight. A single gecko is perfectly happy alone.
Temperature and Humidity
- Ideal temperature: 22–26°C, room temperature for most homes
- Avoid temperatures above 28–29°C; crested geckos are sensitive to heat and can suffer fatal heat stress
- Humidity: 60–80%, achieved by misting the enclosure in the evening
- Let the enclosure dry out somewhat between mistings to prevent mould
Lighting
As nocturnal animals they don't strictly require UVB, but a low-level UVB bulb supports long-term health and bone development. If used, provide a day/night cycle and plenty of shade.
Feeding
- Feed a complete crested gecko diet (CGD) powder, mixed with water, every 1–2 days
- Offer appropriately sized, gut-loaded insects (crickets, dubia roaches) once or twice a week as enrichment
- Provide fresh water in a shallow dish at all times
Handling and Health
Let a new gecko settle for 1–2 weeks before handling, then keep sessions short and low to a soft surface; they're jumpers. Note that a dropped tail will not grow back (unlike many lizards), so handle gently. Signs of good health include clear eyes, alertness, a good appetite, and regular shedding.
Find terrariums, branches, foliage, and reptile supplies in our Reptile range.
