Crested Gecko Care Guide

The crested gecko has become one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world, and for good reason. These charming nocturnal lizards from New Caledonia are perfect for beginners, with simple care requirements, a gentle temperament, and stunning color variations. Once thought extinct until their rediscovery in 1994, crested geckos have exploded in popularity thanks to their ease of care and incredible breeding potential. Whether you're a first-time reptile owner or an experienced keeper looking for a low-maintenance species, the crested gecko offers a rewarding and fascinating pet experience.

Species Overview

The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is a medium-sized arboreal gecko native to the islands of New Caledonia in the South Pacific. Named for the distinctive crest of skin that runs from their eyes down to their tail, these geckos were believed to be extinct for decades until a small population was rediscovered after a tropical storm in 1994. Since then, they've become one of the most widely bred and kept reptiles in captivity.

Adult crested geckos typically reach 7-9 inches in total length, with their body making up about 4-5 inches and the tail (if present) adding another 3-4 inches. Unlike many gecko species, crested geckos cannot regenerate their tails if dropped, which is why many captive specimens are tailless. Despite this, they live perfectly healthy lives without their tails.

Crested geckos are primarily frugivorous, meaning they eat mostly fruit in the wild, along with insects and nectar. This unique diet led to the development of specialized commercial crested gecko diets (CGD) that make feeding incredibly simple compared to insect-only reptiles like leopard geckos.

These geckos are nocturnal and crepuscular, spending their days sleeping in foliage and becoming active at dusk and throughout the night. They're equipped with specialized toe pads covered in microscopic hair-like structures called setae, allowing them to climb smooth vertical surfaces and even walk upside down on glass.

Crested geckos come in an astounding variety of colors and patterns, from fiery reds and oranges to creamy whites and deep browns. Breeders have developed numerous morphs including Harlequin, Flame, Dalmatian, Pinstripe, and many others. This variety, combined with their easy care, has made them a favorite among both beginners and dedicated breeders.

One of the most appealing aspects of crested geckos is their longevity. With proper care, these geckos can live 15-20 years in captivity, making them a long-term companion. They're also relatively quiet, don't smell when kept clean, and require minimal space compared to larger reptiles like bearded dragons.

Is a Crested Gecko Right for You?

Before bringing home a crested gecko, it's important to consider whether this species fits your lifestyle and expectations. While they're considered one of the best beginner reptiles, they do have specific needs and characteristics that may or may not align with what you're looking for in a pet.

Crested geckos are ideal if you:

• Want a low-maintenance reptile that doesn't require complex heating or lighting
• Prefer a pet that's active during evening hours when you're home from work or school
• Have limited space and can accommodate a vertical enclosure
• Enjoy observing natural behaviors more than frequent handling
• Want a long-lived pet that can be part of your life for two decades
• Are interested in a species with incredible color variety and breeding potential
• Prefer feeding a simple commercial diet over dealing with live insects regularly

Crested geckos may not be the best choice if you:

• Want a highly interactive pet that enjoys constant handling (they tolerate handling but don't actively seek it)
• Prefer diurnal animals that are active during the day
• Live in a very hot climate without air conditioning (they need temps below 80°F)
• Want a pet that's active and visible throughout the day
• Are looking for a large, impressive reptile (cresties are relatively small)
• Cannot maintain consistent humidity levels or remember to mist regularly

Crested geckos are excellent starter reptiles for children under adult supervision. They're generally docile and tolerate gentle handling well, making them great for teaching responsibility and animal care. However, young children should always be supervised during handling to prevent accidental drops or rough treatment that could cause the gecko to drop its tail.

The financial commitment is relatively modest compared to many reptiles. Initial setup costs typically range from $200-400 for the enclosure, decorations, and equipment. Ongoing monthly costs are minimal—usually $15-30 for food and occasional substrate replacement. Veterinary care is rarely needed for healthy specimens, though it's wise to budget for an annual checkup with a reptile veterinarian.

Space requirements are also manageable. A single adult crested gecko needs a minimum 18x18x24 inch vertical enclosure, which has a small footprint and can easily fit on a desk or dresser. This makes them perfect for apartment living or smaller homes.

Habitat Setup: Creating the Perfect Enclosure

Setting up a proper enclosure is crucial for your crested gecko's health and happiness. Because these are arboreal geckos that spend most of their time climbing, vertical space is much more important than floor space.

Enclosure Size and Type

For a single adult crested gecko, the minimum enclosure size is 18x18x24 inches (width x depth x height). Bigger is always better, and many keepers opt for 18x18x36 inch enclosures to provide more climbing space. Juvenile crested geckos can start in smaller enclosures like 12x12x18 inches, but they'll need to be upgraded as they grow.

Glass terrariums with front-opening doors are the most popular choice. Brands like Exo Terra and Zoo Med make excellent vertical terrariums specifically designed for arboreal species. Screen cages are generally not recommended for crested geckos because they don't hold humidity well and can cause toe injuries.

Some keepers successfully use custom PVC enclosures, which hold humidity better than glass and are lighter weight. However, they typically cost more than glass terrariums.

Substrate Options

Choosing the right substrate is important for maintaining humidity and providing a natural appearance. Several options work well:

Paper towels are the simplest option, especially for quarantine or young geckos. They're easy to clean, inexpensive, and eliminate any risk of impaction. However, they don't look natural and don't hold humidity as well as other options.

Coconut fiber (coco coir) is a popular natural substrate that holds humidity well and looks attractive. It's safe if accidentally ingested in small amounts and is relatively inexpensive. Replace it every 1-2 months or when it becomes soiled.

Bioactive substrates are becoming increasingly popular for crested geckos. A bioactive setup includes a drainage layer, soil mix, and live cleanup crew (isopods and springtails) that break down waste naturally. These setups are more expensive initially but require less maintenance long-term and provide the most natural environment.

Avoid sand, wood shavings, and other loose substrates that could cause impaction if ingested. Also avoid substrates with added fertilizers or chemicals.

Decorations and Climbing Surfaces

Crested geckos need plenty of vertical climbing surfaces and hiding spots. Your enclosure should include:

Live or artificial plants: Cork bark rounds and flats provide excellent climbing surfaces and hiding spots. Arrange them vertically and at angles to create a three-dimensional environment.

Branches: Bamboo poles, grapewood, or mopani wood create highways for your gecko to travel. Secure them firmly to prevent collapse.

Foliage: Live plants like pothos, bromeliads, and snake plants work wonderfully and help maintain humidity. Artificial plants are easier to maintain and also provide coverage. Crested geckos feel most secure with dense foliage to hide in.

Hides: Provide at least two hides—one near the top of the enclosure and one lower down. Cork bark rounds, hollow logs, or commercial reptile hides all work well.

Water and Humidity

Crested geckos need constant access to water and high humidity levels. Provide a shallow water dish at the bottom of the enclosure, changed daily. Many crested geckos prefer to drink water droplets from leaves, so daily misting is essential.

Install a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels, which should stay between 60-80%. Humidity will naturally spike after misting and gradually decrease before the next misting. This cycle is healthy and natural—constant 80% humidity can lead to mold and respiratory issues.

For larger enclosures, an automatic misting system like MistKing can be a worthwhile investment to maintain consistent humidity without daily manual misting.

Temperature and Lighting Requirements

One of the reasons crested geckos are so beginner-friendly is their temperature tolerance. Unlike many reptiles that require basking spots and heat lamps, crested geckos thrive at typical room temperatures.

Temperature Range

Crested geckos do best with temperatures between 72-78°F during the day. At night, temperatures can safely drop to 65-72°F. In fact, these geckos prefer slightly cooler temperatures and can become stressed if kept too warm.

The upper limit for crested geckos is about 82°F. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85°F can be fatal. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to use air conditioning to keep temperatures in the safe range during summer months.

For most homes, no supplemental heating is needed. Room temperature is perfect for crested geckos. If your home gets very cold in winter (below 65°F), you can use a low-wattage heat mat on the side of the enclosure (not the bottom) or a ceramic heat emitter to gently raise temperatures. Always use a thermostat with any heat source.

Monitor temperatures with digital thermometers placed at different heights in the enclosure. Avoid analog thermometers, as they're often inaccurate.

Lighting Needs

Crested geckos are nocturnal and don't require UVB lighting to survive, though there's growing evidence that low-level UVB can be beneficial for their overall health and calcium metabolism. Many successful breeders raise healthy geckos without any UVB, while others swear by it.

If you choose to provide UVB, use a low-output bulb like a 5.0 or 6% UVB tube. Place it outside the screen top (screens block about 30-50% of UVB) or use a mesh with larger openings. Replace UVB bulbs every 6-12 months as their output degrades over time.

Regardless of UVB, provide a consistent 12-hour light cycle using a basic LED or low-wattage incandescent bulb. This helps regulate their circadian rhythm. Use a simple timer to automate the lighting schedule—lights on in the morning, off at night.

Avoid bright, intense lighting that could stress your gecko. They prefer dimmer environments and will hide from bright lights. If using live plants, choose a plant-specific LED that provides enough light for photosynthesis without being too intense for your gecko.

Humidity and Water: Keeping Your Gecko Hydrated

Proper humidity is critical for crested geckos. These tropical lizards evolved in the humid rainforests of New Caledonia and need consistent moisture to thrive, especially during shedding.

Maintaining Proper Humidity

Humidity should range between 60-80%, with natural fluctuations throughout the day. After misting, humidity should spike to around 80%, then gradually decrease to 60% before the next misting. This cycling prevents constantly wet conditions that promote mold and bacteria growth.

Mist your enclosure thoroughly twice daily—once in the morning and once in the evening. Use a spray bottle with dechlorinated water (let tap water sit overnight or use reptile water conditioner). Mist all surfaces, including plants, decorations, and walls, creating water droplets that your gecko can drink.

For larger enclosures or if you travel frequently, consider an automatic misting system. These programmable systems deliver consistent misting schedules and are incredibly convenient for busy keepers.

Monitor humidity with a digital hygrometer (not analog, which are unreliable). Place it mid-level in the enclosure for the most accurate reading. If humidity is consistently low, try these solutions:

• Add more live plants to naturally increase humidity
• Cover part of the screen top with acrylic or glass to reduce air exchange
• Use a substrate that holds moisture better, like coconut fiber
• Mist more frequently or for longer duration
• Add a larger water dish to increase evaporation

If humidity is too high (consistently above 85%), increase ventilation by removing any screen covers, reduce misting frequency, or use a small fan to improve air circulation.

Water Sources

Always provide a shallow water dish, even though many crested geckos prefer drinking from water droplets. Change the water daily to prevent bacterial growth. Choose a dish that won't tip over easily and is shallow enough that your gecko won't drown if it falls in.

Crested geckos often won't drink from standing water and instead lap up water droplets from leaves and enclosure walls after misting. This is their natural behavior and why daily misting is so important. You may never see your gecko drink from the water dish, but it should always be available.

Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, wrinkled skin, lethargy, and lack of appetite. If you notice these symptoms, increase misting frequency and consider offering your gecko water directly using a dropper or syringe (without the needle). Place droplets on its nose or lips to encourage drinking.

Diet and Feeding: Nutrition Made Simple

One of the greatest advantages of keeping crested geckos is their simple diet. Unlike many reptiles that require live insects as a staple food, crested geckos can thrive on commercially prepared diets, making feeding incredibly convenient.

Commercial Crested Gecko Diet (CGD)

The foundation of a crested gecko's diet should be a complete commercial crested gecko diet. These powdered formulas are mixed with water to create a pudding-like consistency and contain all the nutrients your gecko needs to thrive.

Popular CGD brands include:

• Pangea: Offers multiple flavors including Watermelon, Papaya, Fig & Insects, and Growth & Breeding formula
• Repashy: Superfoods line includes Crested Gecko MRP Classic and Mango Superblend
• Lugarti: Premium Crested Gecko Diet with probiotics
• Zoo Med: Crested Gecko Food in multiple flavors

Rotating between different brands and flavors ensures nutritional variety and prevents your gecko from becoming picky. Most crested geckos have flavor preferences, so try different options to find what yours loves.

To prepare CGD, mix one part powder with two parts water (adjust consistency to your gecko's preference—some like it thicker, others prefer it thinner). Mix thoroughly until smooth with no lumps. Prepare fresh CGD for each feeding, as it spoils quickly at room temperature.

Feed adult crested geckos every other day, offering about one tablespoon of prepared CGD in a small bowl or ledge feeder. Place the food in the upper portion of the enclosure since crested geckos prefer feeding while elevated. Remove uneaten food after 24-48 hours to prevent spoilage.

Juvenile crested geckos should be offered food daily to support growth. Monitor their weight and adjust feeding frequency if they're not gaining appropriately.

Live Insects

While not strictly necessary, offering live insects 1-2 times per week provides enrichment, exercise, and additional protein. Good insect options include:

• Dubia roaches: High in protein, low odor, can't climb smooth surfaces
• Crickets: Readily available and affordable, though noisy and smelly
• Black soldier fly larvae: High in calcium, good for variety
• Silkworms: Nutritious but more expensive and less readily available

Avoid mealworms and superworms, as their hard exoskeletons can be difficult to digest and their high fat content isn't ideal for crested geckos.

Offer insects no larger than the space between your gecko's eyes. For adults, this is typically 1/4 to 3/8 inch insects. Dust all insects with calcium powder (without D3 if you use UVB, with D3 if you don't) before offering.

Feed insects in the evening when your gecko is active. Offer 3-5 appropriately sized insects per feeding. Use feeding tongs or place insects in a smooth-sided bowl to prevent escapes.

Some keepers successfully raise healthy crested geckos on CGD alone without any insects. If you prefer this approach, choose a CGD that contains insects, like Pangea with Insects formula.

Foods to Avoid

Never feed your crested gecko:

• Wild-caught insects (may contain pesticides or parasites)
• Fireflies or lightning bugs (toxic and deadly)
• Any food with added salt, sugar, or preservatives
• Baby food (lacks proper nutrition and can cause health issues)
• Fruits with seeds, pits, or high citric acid content

While small amounts of mashed fruit (banana, mango, papaya) can be offered as an occasional treat, it should never replace CGD, as fruits lack the proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio and other essential nutrients.

Health and Common Issues

Crested geckos are generally hardy animals with few health problems when kept properly. However, understanding common issues helps you recognize problems early and seek appropriate veterinary care.

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

MBD is caused by calcium deficiency or improper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Symptoms include:

• Kinked or curved tail
• Bowed legs
• Soft, flexible jaw
• Tremors or seizures
• Difficulty walking or climbing
• Lethargy and weakness

Prevent MBD by feeding a complete CGD that contains proper calcium levels and dusting insects with calcium powder. If using UVB lighting, ensure proper distance and replacement schedule. MBD requires veterinary treatment and can be fatal if untreated.

Floppy Tail Syndrome

This condition causes the tail to hang limp rather than being held upright. The exact cause is debated but may involve calcium deficiency, genetics, or improper housing. While not life-threatening, it's permanent and irreversible. Ensure proper nutrition and calcium supplementation to reduce risk.

Stuck Shed

Crested geckos shed their skin regularly, especially when young and growing rapidly. Incomplete sheds (stuck shed) can occur when humidity is too low. Problem areas include:

• Toes (can cut off circulation and cause toe loss)
• Eyes (retained eye caps)
• Tail tip
• Crest area

Prevent stuck shed by maintaining proper humidity (60-80%) and misting regularly. If shed is stuck, increase misting frequency and provide a humid hide—a container with moist sphagnum moss. Gently remove stuck shed after soaking if it doesn't come off naturally. Never pull on shed forcefully, as this can damage skin.

Dropped Tail

Crested geckos can drop their tails when severely stressed, grabbed by the tail, or to escape predators. Unlike leopard geckos, crested geckos cannot regrow their tails. A dropped tail is permanent.

While losing a tail doesn't affect the gecko's overall health, the injury site should be monitored for infection. Keep the gecko on paper towels temporarily, maintain excellent enclosure hygiene, and watch for signs of infection like swelling, discharge, or discoloration. Most dropped tails heal cleanly within 2-3 weeks.

Prevent tail drops by:

• Never grabbing or pulling the tail
• Minimizing stress and handling when the gecko is adjusting to a new home
• Avoiding housing multiple males together
• Handling gently and supporting the gecko's body weight

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections can develop from consistently low temperatures or excessively high humidity without proper ventilation. Symptoms include:

• Gaping mouth
• Labored breathing
• Mucus around nose or mouth
• Lethargy
• Clicking or wheezing sounds

Respiratory infections require veterinary treatment with antibiotics. Maintain proper temperature and humidity with good air circulation to prevent these infections.

Parasites

Captive-bred crested geckos rarely have parasites, but wild-caught specimens or those exposed to contaminated feeders may develop parasitic infections. Symptoms include:

• Weight loss despite eating
• Diarrhea or abnormal feces
• Lethargy
• Regurgitation

A fecal test by a reptile veterinarian can identify parasites, which are treated with appropriate medications.

Finding a Reptile Veterinarian

Establish a relationship with a qualified reptile veterinarian before you need emergency care. Not all vets treat reptiles, so search for an exotic animal vet or herpetological specialist in your area. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) website can help you find qualified vets.

Seek veterinary care if you notice:

• Significant weight loss
• Refusal to eat for more than two weeks
• Sunken eyes or signs of dehydration
• Visible injuries or dropped tail that doesn't heal properly
• Abnormal feces or lack of defecation
• Labored breathing or respiratory symptoms
• Lumps, bumps, or swelling
• Behavioral changes like extreme lethargy

Handling and Temperament

Crested geckos have calm, docile temperaments and tolerate handling better than many gecko species. However, they're not cuddly pets and don't seek out human interaction the way a dog or cat might. Understanding their behavior helps you interact appropriately and minimize stress.

Temperament

Crested geckos are generally gentle and rarely bite. They're more likely to jump away when startled than to act defensively. Each gecko has its own personality—some are bold and curious, while others are shy and skittish.

Young crested geckos tend to be more jumpy and nervous than adults. They're incredibly fast and can leap impressive distances, making handling more challenging. As they mature and become accustomed to gentle handling, most calm down significantly.

Crested geckos are crepuscular and nocturnal, meaning they're most active at dawn, dusk, and nighttime. During the day, they typically sleep hidden in foliage. They may be grumpy or skittish if disturbed during their sleep period.

How to Handle Your Crested Gecko

Wait at least one week after bringing your gecko home before attempting to handle it. This adjustment period allows your gecko to settle in, explore its environment, and begin eating regularly without the added stress of handling.

When you're ready to handle:

1. Choose the right time: Handle your gecko in the evening when it's naturally active, not during the day when it's sleeping.

2. Wash your hands: Always wash hands before and after handling to prevent transferring oils, lotions, or potential pathogens.

3. Move slowly: Approach slowly and let your gecko see your hand coming. Quick movements trigger their escape response.

4. Scoop, don't grab: Gently scoop your gecko from underneath, supporting its entire body. Never grab the tail or chase your gecko around the enclosure.

5. Let them climb: Allow your gecko to walk from hand to hand. They're explorers and will enjoy climbing on you.

6. Stay low: Handle your gecko over a soft surface like a bed or couch in case it jumps. Keep sessions short initially—5-10 minutes.

7. Watch for stress signals: If your gecko is gaping its mouth, trying frantically to escape, or has dropped its tail, end the session immediately.

Building Trust

Building a bond with your crested gecko takes patience and consistency:

• Start with brief handling sessions (5 minutes) and gradually increase duration as your gecko becomes comfortable
• Handle your gecko at the same time each evening to establish routine
• Offer CGD from your hand occasionally to create positive associations
• Talk softly around your gecko so it becomes familiar with your voice
• Avoid handling during shedding periods, as they can be more sensitive and irritable

Remember that even well-socialized crested geckos have limits. They're not domesticated animals and may never enjoy handling the way some reptiles do. Respect your gecko's boundaries and personality.

Safety Considerations

Crested geckos are safe pets with minimal risks:

• They rarely bite, and their small teeth can't cause serious injury
• They don't carry diseases commonly transmitted to humans (though basic hygiene like handwashing is always recommended)
• They're quiet and won't disturb neighbors
• They don't have special waste disposal requirements like venomous snakes

The biggest risk is accidental injury to the gecko from dropping, squeezing too hard, or allowing other pets (cats, dogs) access to the gecko. Always supervise children during handling and teach proper techniques.

Where to Buy a Crested Gecko

Choosing a healthy crested gecko from a reputable source is crucial for starting your journey on the right foot. You have several options for acquiring your new pet.

Reptile Expos

Reptile expos are excellent places to find crested geckos. These events gather dozens or hundreds of breeders in one location, offering incredible variety in morphs and pricing. Benefits include:

• Seeing the gecko in person before buying
• Talking directly with breeders about care and genetics
• Comparing prices and morphs from multiple vendors
• Often better prices than pet stores
• Supporting small breeders

Look for active, alert geckos with clear eyes, smooth skin, and good body weight. Avoid geckos that are lethargic, have visible injuries, or show signs of MBD. Reputable breeders will answer questions about the gecko's age, feeding history, and genetics.

Online Breeders

Many specialized crested gecko breeders sell online and ship nationwide (where legal). Reputable online breeders offer:

• Detailed photos and videos of available geckos
• Health guarantees and live arrival guarantees
• Extensive morph selection
• Genetic information and lineage data
• Care guidance and ongoing support

Popular online crested gecko breeders include Pangea Reptile, Tikis Geckos, Altitude Exotics, and many others. Read reviews, ask for references, and ensure the breeder offers appropriate guarantees before purchasing. Shipping is typically via FedEx or UPS overnight delivery and costs $40-60.

Local Breeders

Searching for local crested gecko breeders in your area allows you to pick up your gecko in person, avoiding shipping stress. Check reptile forums, Facebook groups, and classifieds like MorphMarket.com to find breeders near you.

Pet Stores

Large chain pet stores like PetSmart and Petco sometimes carry crested geckos, though selection is limited and quality varies. Benefits include convenience and sometimes lower prices ($40-80), but drawbacks include:

• Unknown genetics and lineage
• Potential health issues from poor care in store
• Limited morph selection
• Staff may provide incorrect care information

If buying from a pet store, carefully inspect the gecko for signs of health problems and quarantine it for at least 30 days before introducing it near other reptiles.

Price Expectations

Crested gecko prices vary dramatically based on morph, genetics, and breeder reputation:

• Pet quality (normal/basic morphs): $40-100
• Mid-grade morphs (harlequins, flames, dalmations): $100-250
• High-end morphs (extreme harlequins, lilly whites, tricolors): $250-600+
• Proven breeders or exceptional genetics: $1,000+

For first-time keepers, a pet-quality gecko is an excellent choice. You'll get the same wonderful pet experience without the premium price for specific morphs.

What to Look for in a Healthy Gecko

Whether buying in person or online, look for these signs of health:

• Alert and active when approached (if viewing during evening hours)
• Clear eyes without cloudiness or sunken appearance
• Smooth skin with no visible stuck shed or injuries
• Good body weight with visible fat stores in the tail base and legs (not emaciated or obese)
• Clean vent with no signs of diarrhea or retained feces
• Straight limbs and tail (if tail is present) without kinks or deformities
• Regular feeding history according to the seller

Reputable sellers will provide information about the gecko's age, feeding schedule, last shed date, and any health concerns. Don't hesitate to ask questions—good breeders want their geckos to go to knowledgeable homes.

Final Thoughts

Crested geckos represent everything great about reptile keeping—beautiful, fascinating, relatively low-maintenance, and perfectly suited for beginners. Their simple care requirements, room-temperature housing needs, and easy diet make them accessible to nearly anyone interested in reptiles.

Whether you're drawn to their incredible color morphs, their charming nocturnal antics, or simply want a unique pet that's easy to care for, crested geckos deliver on all fronts. With proper setup, consistent care, and gentle handling, your crested gecko can thrive for 15-20 years, providing decades of companionship and enjoyment.

As with any pet, success comes down to education and commitment. Take time to set up the enclosure properly before bringing your gecko home, maintain consistent temperature and humidity, offer quality nutrition, and handle respectfully. These simple steps ensure your crested gecko lives a long, healthy, and enriched life.

The crested gecko community is vibrant and supportive, with countless online forums, Facebook groups, and resources available when you have questions. Don't hesitate to reach out to experienced keepers and breeders—most are happy to share their knowledge and help new keepers succeed.

Whether this is your first reptile or you're adding to an existing collection, the crested gecko offers something special. Their rediscovery from near-extinction and subsequent success in captivity is a conservation success story, and keeping them connects you to the unique biodiversity of New Caledonia. Welcome to the wonderful world of crested gecko keeping—you're about to embark on an incredibly rewarding journey with one of the reptile world's most charming species.