CRESTED GECKO
Correlophus ciliatus
DESCRIPTION
The Crested Gecko, or Correlophus ciliatus, is a small to medium-sized lizard known for its distinctive crest of spiny scales running from its head down to its back. They have a robust body, large eyes, and a prehensile tail, which aids in climbing. These geckos are primarily nocturnal and are known for their ability to jump and glide between branches, making them agile in their arboreal habitats.
FUN FACTS
- Crested Geckos were thought to be extinct until they were rediscovered in 1994, leading to a surge in popularity in the pet trade
- They are also known for their unique ability to climb smooth surfaces due to their specialized toe pads, which allow them to adhere to various substrates
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-20 years in captivity
Average Weight30-50 g
Average Length15-20 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, they prefer to live alone except during mating
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Crested Geckos are typically found in humid, tropical forests where they inhabit trees and shrubs. They prefer areas with plenty of cover and climbing opportunities.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Crested Geckos are native to New Caledonia, an island group located in the southwest Pacific Ocean.
- Continent
- Oceania
- Countries
- New Caledonia
- Diet
- Crested Geckos are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a diet that consists mainly of fruits and nectar. They may also consume insects occasionally, especially in the wild.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fruit puree, commercial gecko diet
- Social Structure
- solitary, they prefer to live alone except during mating
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
30-50 g
Weight
15-20 cm
Length
- Coloration
- They exhibit a range of colors, including brown, gray, and yellow, often with unique patterns and markings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are typically larger and have more pronounced crests than females.
- Lifespan
- 10-20 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 28-35 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in the wild, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and the introduction of invasive species. These factors can impact their natural habitats and food sources.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, snakes, and larger reptiles are known to prey on Crested Geckos.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Crested Geckos can drop their tails as a defense mechanism to escape predators, and they also have the ability to camouflage with their surroundings.
- Found in Zoos
- Common