Everything You Need to Know About Buying Crested Geckos for Sale

Thinking about getting new exotic pets?
Crested geckos are great for both beginners and experienced reptile lovers. They are easy to take care of and come in many beautiful colors and patterns. Plus, they are friendly and easy to handle.
In this blog, we'll help you learn everything you need to know about buying and caring for crested geckos. Let's explore their care, habitat, and more before you look for crested geckos for sale!
Choosing the Right Crested Gecko
When picking a crested gecko, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Look for one that's alert and active; this means it's healthy. Check its skin to make sure it's smooth and doesn't have any cuts or parasites.
Also, choose a gecko that eats well, as this shows it's in good health. Lastly, buy from a reputable breeder to ensure your gecko is well-cared-for and ethically sourced.
Setting Up the Habitat
The habitat for your pet reptiles is very important for its health. Start with a tall tank because these geckos love to climb. A 20-gallon tank is good for one adult gecko, but bigger is better.
Add plants, branches, and hiding spots to keep your gecko happy and safe. Use a substrate like coconut fiber or sphagnum moss to keep the humidity just right.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements
Crested geckos need the right temperature and humidity to stay healthy. Keep the temperature between 72°F and 78°F during the day, and let it drop a bit at night. The humidity should be between 60-80%, which you can keep up by misting their home regularly.
A good thermometer and hygrometer will help you keep track of these levels. Remember, if the temperature or humidity is wrong, your gecko could get sick, so check these often.
Feeding Your Crested Gecko
Crested geckos eat both insects and fruit-based foods. You can buy special gecko food from a reputable reptile market that gives them all the nutrients they need and is easy to use.
Sometimes, you can also give them live insects like crickets or mealworms for variety. Put their food in shallow dishes and always have fresh water available. Make sure to clean their food and water dishes regularly to keep your gecko healthy.
Handling and Socializing
One of the best things about gecko adoption is how calm and friendly they are, making them easy to handle. When you first bring your gecko home, let it get used to its new environment before you try to handle it.
Start with short, gentle handling sessions so the gecko can get used to your presence. Always handle your gecko with clean hands and move slowly to avoid stressing it out. Over time, your gecko might even start to enjoy these interactions.
Common Health Issues and How to Prevent Them
Like all pets, crested geckos can get sick if not properly cared for. Common issues include weak bones, breathing problems, and trouble shedding skin. To keep your geckos healthy, make sure they have the right food, temperature, and humidity.
Watch your gecko closely for any signs of illness and take them to a reptile vet for regular check-ups. This will help keep your gecko happy and healthy.
Selecting the Right Enclosure
Picking the right home for your crested gecko is super important. Go for a tall tank since these geckos love to climb. A glass terrarium with a screen lid is great for airflow and easy viewing.
Start with at least a 20-gallon tall tank for one adult gecko. Bigger tanks are even better for their happiness. Make sure the tank is securely closed to avoid escapes.
Lighting and Heating Essentials
Crested geckos don't need strong lights, but having a regular day-night cycle helps them stay healthy. You can use a low-intensity UVB bulb for extra benefits, but it's not a must. Set up the light to mimic natural daylight with 12 hours on and 12 hours off.
For heating, use a low-wattage heat bulb or an under-tank heater to keep the right temperatures. Make sure there are warmer and cooler spots in the tank so your gecko can choose where it wants to be.
Monitoring Humidity Levels
Keeping the right humidity is really important for your crested gecko's health. Aim for humidity between 60-80%, like their natural morning dew. You can mist the tank with a spray bottle or use an automatic misting system to keep it humid.
Adding plants and using a moist substrate can also help. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much moisture can cause mold and breathing problems.
Substrate Choices and Maintenance
Choosing the right bedding for your gecko's home is super important for keeping it humid and clean. Try using coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or eco earth, as they hold moisture well. Avoid sand or gravel since they can be dangerous if swallowed.
Make sure to clean up waste every day and give the whole tank a good clean once a month to keep it safe and healthy for your gecko.
Introducing Plants and Decorations
Adding plants and decorations to your gecko's home makes it look nicer and gives your pet more things to explore. Safe live plants like pothos, bromeliads, and snake plants help keep humidity levels right. Include branches, vines, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat and encourage climbing.
Make sure all decorations are sturdy and have no sharp edges. Occasionally rearranging the setup can keep your gecko mentally stimulated and engaged.
Breeding Crested Geckos
If you're new to breeding crested geckos, start with some basics. Make sure both your male and female geckos are healthy and the right age and size. Set up a cozy nesting spot in their enclosure for the female to lay her eggs. Once she lays the eggs, gently move them to an incubation container with something like vermiculite.
The eggs usually take about 60 to 90 days to hatch. With some patience and gecko care, breeding crested geckos can be a fun and rewarding hobby! Make sure to reach out to experts for more information on exotic pets and how to breed them responsibly.
Finding the Perfect Crested Geckos for Sale
Crested geckos for sale are excellent pets for enthusiasts of all levels. Their easy care and friendly demeanor make them a popular choice. Be sure to purchase from reputable sources to ensure healthy pets. Proper habitat setup is crucial for their well-being.
Regular monitoring of temperature and humidity is essential. With the right care, crested geckos for sale can thrive and bring joy to their owners.
Browse our blog for more interesting reads.