Native to the tropical rainforests of New Caledonia, a group of islands in the South Pacific, this gecko is known for its unique features and gentle temperament. Its name comes from the crest-like rows of spiny scales running from its eyes down to its tail, giving it a distinct and somewhat regal appearance. These little spikes aren’t sharp; they add to the gecko’s charming, dragon-like look.

One of the most captivating features of the crested gecko is its eyes. They are large, expressive, and lack eyelids. Instead, these geckos clean their eyes by licking them with their tongue, which is both functional and endearing to watch. Their toes and tails are equipped with specialized pads that allow them to cling to smooth surfaces, including glass. This makes them excellent climbers, a skill they use to navigate the trees and plants of their natural habitat.

Crested geckos are known for their incredible range of colors and patterns, often referred to as “morphs.” They can be shades of orange, red, yellow, cream, or brown, with markings that include spots, stripes, or marbled patterns. These variations make each gecko unique and especially popular among reptile enthusiasts. Interestingly, their colors can shift slightly depending on their mood, temperature, or time of day, making them even more intriguing.

Crested geckos are nocturnal in the wild, coming out at night to hunt for food. Their diet consists of fruits, nectar, and insects, making them omnivores. This varied diet contributes to the health of their ecosystem, as they help pollinate plants and control insect populations.

The crested gecko was once thought to be extinct, as it hadn’t been seen for decades until it was rediscovered in 1994. This “Lazarus species” moment was a triumph for conservation and herpetology, sparking interest in studying and protecting these animals.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

New Caledonia

VU

2017