Crested Gecko Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ SHEET)

1. My new gecko won’t eat. Is this normal?

It is common for crested geckos to refuse food for the first couple of weeks after moving to a new home. This behavior is often due to stress as they adjust to their new environment. During this time, ensure the enclosure is set up correctly:

• Temperature: Maintain 70°F–75°F, avoiding temperatures above 80°F.
• Humidity: Keep levels between 50% and 80%, misting the enclosure lightly once or twice daily.
• Hides: Provide plenty of hiding spots to help them feel secure. We recommend our 3D-Printed Gecko Caves available on our website, to create a comfortable and functional habitat.

Offer food consistently by placing a small amount of a complete crested gecko diet in a shallow dish overnight. Geckos are nocturnal and prefer to eat in the dark when it is quiet. Avoid overhandling your gecko during this adjustment period to reduce stress. Most geckos will begin eating once they feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

2. My gecko doesn’t like being handled. What should I do?

Crested geckos often require time to get used to handling. Start with short handling sessions of 5–10 minutes, a few times per week. Be gentle and allow the gecko to explore your hands on its own terms. Avoid sudden movements or grabbing, as this can frighten them. Over time, your gecko should become more comfortable with handling. Each gecko is unique, so patience is key.

3. I have to hand-feed my gecko. Is that okay?

Hand-feeding is fine as a temporary measure for geckos that are reluctant to eat. However, it’s important to encourage independence. Try offering food in a shallow dish and leaving it overnight. Ensure the gecko’s enclosure is quiet and dim to reduce distractions. Hand-feeding can also be a bonding opportunity, but it’s best to transition to self-feeding when possible.

4. How often should I mist the enclosure?

Mist the enclosure lightly once or twice a day to maintain humidity levels between 50% and 80%. The morning mist can be lighter, while the evening mist should be more thorough. Always allow the enclosure to dry out slightly between mistings to prevent mold growth and respiratory issues. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels accurately. Our digital hygrometers and spray bottles are great tools to help you maintain optimal conditions.

5. What gecko diet should I use?

We recommend a complete crested gecko diet from trusted brands such as Pangea, Repashy, or Lugarti. These diets are nutritionally balanced and easy to prepare. Mix the powdered diet with water to form a smooth paste and offer it in a shallow dish. For variety, you can supplement with live insects like crickets or dubia roaches once or twice a week and occasionally offer small pieces of fruit, such as mango or banana. Avoid feeding citrus fruits.

Our feeding ledges and cups make feeding easier and cleaner for both you and your gecko.

6. How do I sex my crested gecko? Is it male or female?

Sexing crested geckos depends on their age and size.

• Babies and Juveniles: It can be challenging to determine the sex of young geckos. Typically, males develop a noticeable hemipenal bulge at the base of their tail as they grow.
• Adults: Males will have a prominent bulge, while females will have a flatter underside near the tail base.

For a detailed guide on how to sex your crested gecko, watch our video on the Guardians of the Geckos YouTube Channel: How to Sex Your Crested Gecko.

7. How do I get my gecko to eat crickets?

Introducing crickets to your crested gecko's diet can be a great way to provide enrichment and protein. Here's how to encourage your gecko to eat them:

• Dust the Crickets: Always dust crickets with a calcium supplement (like Repashy's Calcium+) before offering them to your gecko. This ensures they get essential nutrients for bone health.
• Offer Appropriately Sized Crickets: The crickets should be no larger than the space between your gecko’s eyes to prevent choking.
• Feed in the Evening: Geckos are nocturnal, so they are more likely to eat live insects during the evening hours.
• Introduce Gradually: Start by placing one or two crickets in the enclosure and observe your gecko's response. Remove any uneaten crickets after an hour to prevent them from biting your gecko.
• Use Feeding Tongs: If your gecko is hesitant, try offering a cricket with feeding tongs to make it more enticing.

For a step-by-step tutorial, check out our video on the Guardians of the Geckos YouTube Channel: How to Get Your Gecko to Eat Crickets.

8. What size tank or enclosure should I get for my crested gecko?

• Babies and Juveniles: A smaller enclosure, such as 8” x 8” x 12”, helps them feel secure and makes it easier for them to find food.
• Adults: A vertical enclosure of at least 12” x 12” x 18” is ideal, though larger is better. Crested geckos are arboreal and need plenty of climbing space.

9. What should I include in the enclosure?

• Substrate: Use paper towels for babies or humidity-retaining substrates like cypress mulch or coconut husk for adults.
• Decor: Include branches, vines, and plants (live or artificial) for climbing and hiding. Our Magnetic Ledges and provide both functionality and aesthetics.
• Lighting and Heating: Maintain temperatures between 70°F and 75°F with no more than 80°F at the hottest spot. A small 25W bulb can provide a basking area without overheating.

10. Why is my gecko shedding, and what should I do?

Crested geckos shed approximately once a month. The process is quick, usually occurring at night. Ensure the enclosure has proper humidity and climbing surfaces to aid shedding. If you notice stuck shed, gently mist the gecko or use a damp cotton swab to help remove it.

Our moisture-retaining hides are perfect for helping geckos maintain proper humidity levels during shedding.

11. Can I house multiple geckos together?

We recommend housing crested geckos individually. While adult females may cohabitate in large enclosures, monitor them closely for signs of stress or aggression. Never house two males together, as they are territorial and may fight.

12. How long do crested geckos live, and how big do they get?

With proper care, crested geckos can live 10–20 years and grow up to 8–9 inches in length, including their tail.

13. How do I encourage my gecko to eat if it’s being picky?

If your gecko is hesitant to eat, try the following:

• Offer fresh food every night.
• Provide a quiet, dim environment during feeding times.
• Experiment with different flavors of crested gecko diet, such as fruit-based options.
• Add a drop of honey or a small amount of fruit puree to entice them.