Crested geckos, also known as eyelash geckos because of the fringe-like scales above their eyes, are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world. Native to New Caledonia, these gentle geckos are loved for their expressive faces, variety of colors, and easygoing care needs. Unlike many reptiles, they don’t require intense heating or complicated lighting setups, which makes them an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned reptile enthusiasts alike.

Care Basics

Crested Gecko Care (Eyelash Gecko Care)

Crested geckos are relatively low-maintenance reptiles, but they still need a proper environment and consistent care. They thrive in vertical enclosures with plenty of climbing space, live or artificial plants for cover, and regular misting to maintain humidity. A diet of commercially formulated crested gecko food (CGD) is recommended, supplemented occasionally with live insects like crickets or dubia roaches.

Crested Gecko Size & Growth

• Hatchlings: ~2–3 inches long at birth.
  

• Juveniles: Rapid growth in the first year, reaching 5–6 inches.
  

• Adults: Fully grown at 8–10 inches long, weighing 35–55 grams.
  
  

Newborn Crested Gecko Care

Baby crested geckos do best in smaller enclosures (like a 5–10 gallon tank or a small terrarium). This helps them find food easily and reduces stress. Use paper towel substrate for easy cleaning, mist daily to maintain proper humidity, and provide shallow dishes for food and water. Avoid handling too much until they’ve grown stronger.

Crested Gecko as a Pet

Crested geckos are gentle, handleable, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns (known as morphs). They don’t require daily insect feedings, making them easier to care for than many other lizards. With proper care, they can live 15–20 years, making them a long-term companion.

Habitat & Enclosure

Eyelash Gecko Habitat Setup

Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they live in trees. Their habitat should mimic this environment with vertical climbing space, branches, cork bark, vines, and hides. Plants (live or artificial) add cover and enrichment.

Crested Gecko Tank Size Guide

• Hatchlings: 5–10 gallon tank (or equivalent small terrarium).
  

• Juveniles: 10–15 gallon vertical tank.
  

• Adults: At least 20 gallons vertical (minimum 12x12x18 inches). Larger is always better.
  
  

Adult Crested Gecko Enclosure

For adults, choose a vertical terrarium such as an 18x18x24 Exo Terra or equivalent. Provide multiple perches at different heights, hiding areas, a food ledge, and proper ventilation.

How Big of a Tank Does a Crested Gecko Need?

Rule of thumb: one adult per 20-gallon vertical enclosure. For groups, larger custom enclosures are required to avoid stress and competition.

Environment Needs

Crested Gecko Humidity

Crested geckos need 50–70% humidity. Mist the enclosure once or twice daily, ideally in the morning and evening. Always allow the tank to dry slightly between mistings to prevent mold. A hygrometer helps track levels accurately.

Crested Gecko Heating & Temperature

Crested geckos thrive at 72–78°F during the day, with a slight nighttime drop to 65–72°F. In most homes, extra heating isn’t necessary unless the room drops below 68°F. If supplemental heat is needed, use a low-wattage heat bulb or ceramic heat emitter — but never place heating elements directly inside the enclosure.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up a Crested Gecko Tank

1. Choose the Right Enclosure

• Start small for hatchlings (5–10 gallons).

• Upgrade to a vertical 20-gallon or larger for adults.

2. Select Substrate

• Hatchlings: paper towels (easy to clean).

• Adults: coco fiber, moss, or bioactive substrate for humidity and aesthetics.

3. Add Climbing Decor

• Branches, cork bark, vines, and ledges for climbing.

4. Provide Hides & Cover

• Leafy plants, caves, and shaded spots to reduce stress.

5. Install Food & Water Dishes

• Place food dishes on a ledge or elevated area (geckos prefer to eat off the ground).

6. Maintain Humidity & Temperature

• Mist daily, monitor with hygrometer/thermometer.

7. Lighting (Optional but Recommended)

• While not strictly required, low-level UVB lighting can improve long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the best care for a crested gecko (eyelash gecko)?
A: Crested geckos need a vertical enclosure, proper humidity (50–70%), a balanced diet of commercial gecko food + occasional insects, and a safe environment with climbing branches and hides.

Q2. What size tank does a crested gecko need?
A: Hatchlings do well in smaller enclosures (5–10 gallons). Adults need at least a 20-gallon vertical tank (12”x12”x18” minimum). Bigger is always better.

Q3. How big do crested geckos get?
A: Adult crested geckos typically grow 8–10 inches long, including their tail.

Q4. Do crested geckos need heating?
A: In most homes, they don’t need special heating if room temps stay between 72–78°F. If it drops below 68°F, a low-watt heat source may be needed.

Q5. What’s the right humidity for a crested gecko?
A: Maintain 50–70% humidity, with daily misting. Allow the enclosure to dry slightly between mistings to prevent mold.

Q6. What do newborn crested geckos need?
A: Hatchlings require a smaller enclosure, frequent misting, access to shallow water, and daily feeding with gecko diet.

Q7. How do you set up a crested gecko tank?
A: Start with a vertical tank, add substrate (paper towel for hatchlings, bioactive for adults), climbing branches, hides, plants, food/water dishes, and a hygrometer/thermometer.

Q8. Why are crested geckos good pets?
A: They’re hardy, don’t require expensive heating or UVB (though UVB is beneficial), are generally calm, and live 15–20 years with proper care.

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