How Much Do Crested Geckos Cost?
The crested gecko, also known as the Guichenot’s giant gecko, New Caledonian crested gecko or eyelash gecko, is a semi-arboreal species of geckos which spend much of their time in low shrubs and small trees. However, they will also look for hiding spots close to the ground to sleep during the day.
Since their rediscovery, crested geckos have become a popular exotic pet.
Compared to the majority of other reptiles on the market, the crested gecko has a docile personality and is an easy keeper.
With proper care, the average lifespan of a captive-bred crested gecko should be around 15 years or more.
How much do crested geckos cost?
On average, a crested gecko can cost anywhere from $20 to more than $300+ for certain colors and patterns. The costs, ultimately, will depend on where you are buying it from, the colors/morph, gender and whether it is a hatchling or an adult.
Refer to our table below to see what the common morphs may cost via a local breeder:
| Morph | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Brindle | $125 |
| Cream | $250 |
| Dalmatian | $100 |
| Dark | $110 |
| Flame | $200 |
| Harlequin | $200 |
| Pinstripe | $150 |
| Red | $175 |
| Yelow | $200 |
At PetSmart.com, for example, the eyelash crested gecko retails for $40.
MorphMarket.com has more than 41 different genes and traits available, with hundreds of listings ranging from as little as $20 to more than $350+. This is an easy-to-use website to see what a particular morph may cost.
Crested geckos overview
At adulthood, the crested gecko measures approximately eight to 10 inches in length, half of which being the tail of the gecko.
In the wild, its skin color varies and new variations have been created by breeders, known as “morphs.” The more popular colors for hobbyists/pet owners are red and orange, and pattern variations, such as brindle and harlequin, are also available.
What are the extra costs?
Crested geckos primarily feed on crickets, mealworms, wax worms, commercial foods, fruits and calcium supplements. All meals should be dusted using calcium powder that includes D3. Expect to spend around $10 a month. Juveniles will need to be fed twice a day, whereas adults will need to eat three to four times per week.
A 20-gallon enclosure tank with an escape-proof lid is considered to be the standard size for a pair of crested gecko, and this type of enclosure setup will usually cost around $30 to $100. Click here to check out the best selling aquariums on Amazon.com.
Inside this tank, you will also need to consider the bedding substrate, such as wood chips, ($5), a small water dish ($2), and lush branches with leaves ($20).
You should change the substrate once every month or whenever it is required. Also be sure to thoroughly clean the terrarium using a reptile disinfectant.
A small heat lamp and bulb will cost roughly $15, while UVA and UVB fluorescent bulbs will cost around $30. A tank should be kept at about 80 degrees Fahrenheit at all times for optimum comfort. The humidity levels should also be kept within the 50 to 70 percent range.
Be prepared for any routine and/or unexpected vet visits. One visit to the vet, without any tests, can easily cost $60.
Tips to know:
A unique feature is its crested scales, which form above the eyes and extend down the neck of the gecko, thereby lending to the alternate name of this reptile — eyelash gecko.
The crested gecko is a reptile species that is native to the islands of New Caledonia, which is a French territory located in Southwest of the Pacific Ocean. The Rhacodactylus genus of geckos also comprises of the giant gecko, gargoyle gecko, as well as the prehensile-tailed tailed gecko, all of which are native to New Caledonia.
Importing any crested gecko species from New Caledonia is prohibited. They can, however, be purchased from captive breeders.
Crested Geckos are good lizards for handling, but when doing so, you should treat them gently, with care and love, allowing them to sit on the hands. Never grab or pick up the gecko by its tail as it will shed its tail as a defense mechanism, and it will not grow back. Reptiles Magazine recommends waiting at least three to four weeks to let them adjust to their environment before handling them.
Males do not get along well with other crested geckos as adults. They will fight, so it’s best to keep one for every enclosure. They can be kept together with a harem of females, provided that the enclosure is large enough to accommodate them.
How can I save money?
Search Craigslist to see if you can find someone giving away their gecko, along with the full setup for a lower-than-average price.
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