Crested Gecko whose scientific name is Correlophus ciliatus is an endemic species that occurs only (!) in New Caledonia. It isn't without reason that this reptile is called "crested". This little lizard looks like a dinosaur miniature. His "eyelashes" are covered with a skin rump imitating the horns. His eyes looks absolutely amazing and in my opinion they are one of the most beautiful eyes in the world of reptiles. Today I will try to bring you closer to the figure of this little monster, have fun!
First of all- his appearance
Crested geckos are quite large for a family of geckos. The male may reach about 20 centimeters in length, but they have been seen even 22 centimeters. They weigh up to 70 grams.
Because of their amazing appearance, they are bred by many people and always arouse admiration among those who watch them. Do you remember how I wrote that these geckos have beautiful eyes? Look at the picture below.
Beautiful, right? Over these wonderful eyes, we can notice the skin appendages from which the name probably came from. In addition, in these animals we can distinguish several varieties of color for example:
- Patternless - all in one color
- Moonglow - white
- Red flame - red body and yellow or cream patterns.
- Bi-color - in one color, but two shades (for example, a bright belly but a dark back)
- Fire - is characterized by a colorful, dorsal belt
- Harlequin - a variety with clearer, larger discolorations on the sides of the body and limbs.
- Green flame / harlequin - instead of a brown color - greenish
It is a treat for breeders who like to have "colorful" pets in the collection. Classically, the tail, like most geckos, occupies almost half of the body and has the function of separating from the gecko in order to confuse the opponent.
A dinosaur... almost
As I mentioned before, this reptile is unfortunately an endemic species found in New Caledonia. An interesting fact is that apart from the fact that it looks like a miniature of a prehistoric crocodile ... it is also an extinct species.
At least they thought so. In 1866, a mr. Guichenot discovered these lizards, did research, and crested gecko was recognized as a species.
However, since siencist found the first geckos, hearing about them was lost, as a result of which the lizard was considered a species extinct until 1994. In the same year he was discovered again, examined and "resurrected".
What eats "Crested gecko" ?
They are omnivorous - they eat from insects to small fruit. In Caledonia there is a huge amount of this type of "delicacies", so geckos throughout the year have something to eat.
In captivity, we can also give them various kinds of insects and fruits, but I also knew a guy who from time to time gave his lizard newborns of mice.
Much more interesting is the case when we want to pokombinować with food for our pet. We can mix fruit or ... give different kinds of pulp (yes, the same ones that young children eat) ! You've heard well- geckos like to eat pulps for children like Gerber. If you have a small child who is not eating a cup of coffee, your gecko will certainly not grapple with it. :)
Yummmmy !
Breeding
In 1994-96, several pieces were caught and when it turned out that crested geckos are easy to maintain and quickly acclimate in human homes - they were quickly taken to captivity, multiplied and became the darlings of breeders from around the world. At the moment, they are recommended for beginners, due to the very quick acclimation and lack of breeding problems.
Terrarium build
In the terrarium for these geckos there must be many different branches and leaves, so that our dinosaur will jump between them. Crested geckos love to jump from branch to branch (sometimes even on the hands of the owner). Remember that if you want to breed this animal your terrarium must be high enough (minimum 60 cm), because as I mentioned earlier, these geckos lead an arboreal lifestyle.
For example:
SUMMARY
These geckos are very friendly and really beautiful animals. Observing their life in a terrarium can be an interesting diversion of the day. It is recommended for both beginners and experienced breeders, so it is unnecessary to be afraid of whether we give good advice to ensure good conditions. Of course, we must remember that they are wild animals and not to treat them like toys.
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