Crested Gecko

Crested Geckos are among the larger gecko species and can grow up to about 14 inches long. Their coloring can range from yellow and brown to green, often with white markings along the body. They have a soft, fringed crest above the eyes that gives them their name, along with specialized toe pads that help them climb nearly vertical surfaces. Males usually have broader heads and more slender bodies than females. They also have a semi-prehensile tail, which can help with gripping and balance. Like many lizards, they can drop the tail if threatened.

Crested Geckos live in the canopies of rainforests on the New Caledonia Islands. Their habitat is increasingly threatened by logging, development, poaching, and invasive species, all of which can disrupt the forest environments they rely on.

Crested Geckos eat a mix of invertebrates, fruit, and occasionally very small vertebrates.

Crested Geckos are generally solitary and usually only come together to breed. They can live up to about 20 years in human care.

Crested Geckos are excellent climbers thanks to specialized toe pads that allow them to grip surfaces with ease. They’re also known for one of the most surprising comeback stories in the reptile world. For many years, they were believed to be extinct before being rediscovered in 1994.

Vulnerable