If you’re a crested gecko owner or considering adding one to your family, you may be wondering how big they get. In this article, we’ll discuss the size and growth rate of crested geckos, how to provide adequate space for your pet, and tips for ensuring a healthy and happy crested gecko.
Size and Growth Rate of Crested Geckos
Crested geckos are a small to medium-sized species, with adults typically reaching between 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) in length, including their tail. Males tend to be slightly larger than females.
Crested geckos reach sexual maturity at around 15-18 months of age and continue to grow slowly throughout their lifespan, with the majority of their growth occurring during their first year of life.
Providing Adequate Space for Your Crested Gecko
Crested geckos are arboreal animals that require vertical space to climb and explore. When housing a crested gecko, it’s important to provide an enclosure that is large enough to meet their needs.
A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 10 gallons of space per gecko. For example, a single adult crested gecko should be housed in a 20-gallon enclosure, while two adult geckos should be housed in a 30-gallon enclosure.
The enclosure should also include plenty of climbing surfaces, hiding spots, and enrichment items such as plants and branches.
Tips for Ensuring a Healthy and Happy Crested Gecko
Here are some tips for ensuring a healthy and happy crested gecko:
Diet
Crested geckos require a varied diet that includes both insects and fruit-based commercial diets. Offer a variety of food items to ensure that your gecko is getting all the necessary nutrients.
Humidity
Crested geckos require high humidity levels to thrive. Maintain a humidity level of 50-80% in their enclosure by misting daily and providing a moist hide.
Temperature
Maintain a temperature range of 72-80°F (22-27°C) during the day and 65-75°F (18-24°C) at night. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature in the enclosure.
Handling
Crested geckos are docile and handleable, but it’s important to handle them gently and avoid grabbing their tail, which can detach as a defense mechanism.
Health
Monitor your crested gecko’s health by observing their behavior, appetite, and waste. Take your gecko to a reptile veterinarian if you notice any signs of illness or abnormal behavior.
The Short Answer
Crested geckos are a small to medium-sized species that typically reach between 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) in length, including their tail. It’s important to provide an enclosure that is large enough to meet their needs and includes climbing surfaces, hiding spots, and enrichment items. Ensure that your crested gecko is getting a varied diet, adequate humidity and temperature levels, and proper handling and health care. By following these tips, you can help ensure a healthy and happy crested gecko.