WHERE DID THESE GECKO'S COME FROM?

The crested gecko(rhacodactylus ciliatus), also known as the "eyelash" gecko, was thought to be extinct in the wild until sometime in 1994. It was discovered on an island northeast of Australia, named New Caledonia. It's name refers to the crests that start at the eyes and run towards their tail base. They also have a prehensile tail that they can support their entire body weight from.

ARE THE HARD TO CARE FOR?

The crested gecko is a very hardy animal, needing little in specialized care. A glass terrarium with a screen top does very well. A 10-20 gallon tank will do just fine. Then a few hiding places such as cork bark or bamboo, and some plastic plants (easier to clean), will give them a good playground. A moistened substrate such as reptile bark or paper towels will keep the humidity level in check when misted daily. It is a good idea to always keep a water dish available. I have found a good housing temperature to be in the mid to upper 70's. However they can live anywhere between 65 and 85 degrees. Normally your average house temperature will be fine.

FEEDING MY NEW CRESTED'S

Crested's start feeding on baby food and cricket's within a couple weeks of hatching. When feeding baby food, make sure to suppliment with vitamins and calcium. If you feed cricket's, remember that they should be no larger than the width of the gecko's head. Normally 2-3 week old crickets until they are about 6 months old, then 4 week crickets from then on. When feeding cricket's, it is also important to dust them with a suppliment.