Do you want a low-maintenance pet that doesn’t require a lot of space and is generally easy to care for? If so, a crested gecko is one pet you should consider. Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia and were first discovered in 1866. These lizards make great pets because they’re easy to maintain and don’t need a lot of attention.
Just like dogs and cats, crested geckos make exceptional pets for both children and adults. They are loyal companions and can bring joy to you and your entire family. So if you want to know why crested geckos make great pets, please read on…
Why Do Crested Geckos Make Exceptional Pets?
1. They Can Change Color
If you’re looking for cool and amazing things, this one fits the description! This reptile’s main talent is to change color based on its surroundings, which include the vegetation and shapes of the forest they live in.
During the day, the leaf litter, tree trunks, and branches provide them a place of camouflage where they can hide from predators. So, if you are on the lookout for a reptile that requires less effort in its care and has the ability to camouflage, I recommend you go for the crested gecko.
2. They Are Fun and Educational
Apart from their ability to change color, these reptiles offer a fun way of learning. Take, for example, tackling the challenge of knowing how to sex a crested gecko. Because they generally look alike, it’s hard to know right away, which one is male and which is female.
You’ll also get to learn more about how reptiles behave and find out more about their peculiarities compared to other reptiles or pets. Once you keep a crested gecko at home, you’ll be surprised by the endless fun and knowledge you’ll gain. Believe me, this will open up a whole new world for you.
3. They Make Great Home Decors
These days, you can use so many ideas to improve your interior décor, but have you ever thought of using live animals like a crested gecko? If adding an aquarium is costly, then a crested gecko may just do the trick.
These adorable little pets can give your living room a natural look. With these creatures, you’ll be entertained, especially at night when they start changing their skin colors.
The crested gecko’s terrarium is similar to a gold fish’s aquarium—but without water. Decorate the terrarium with exotic backgrounds, twigs, and plants, with the gecko as the central character. That setup will definitely be one heck of a conversation piece.
4. They Do Not Stink
Nobody wants a stinking pet in their homes. Animals all have that natural scent that helps them stand out in nature. In fact, this is the top reason why most folks don’t want to adopt pets.
Dirt and odor are the main reasons some first-time pet owners abandon their pets. So, if you’re looking for a pet with no irritating odor, then I recommend you go for the crested gecko.
You may even go for a month without cleaning them, and they will still be odorless. However, the moisture content in their terrarium may absorb their urine and poop. Still, this will not interfere with their odor because they will not smell like other lizards and reptiles.
Nevertheless, you will still want to clean the terrarium at least once every month to ensure that the habitat is clean and clear of any offensive odors.
5. They Don’t Take Too Much Space in Your Home
Crested geckos are small and require minimal housing. Therefore, they won’t take up too much space in the house. A 10-gallon aquarium is sufficient for a single adult crestie, making them an ideal pet for those with limited space.
6. Low Maintenance
These pets are cost-effective in that they are cheap to acquire, friendlier, and require low-level maintenance. Crested geckos are relatively low-maintenance compared to other reptiles. They do not require special lighting or heating like many other reptiles and can be fed a diet of mostly insects.
In fact, all the resources that will be required by this pet are cheap and easily available. You will not spend a lot of money on your pet’s food or building equipment for the terrarium. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about them getting sick frequently, so, fewer vet visits for you.
7. Can Survive in a Wide Range of Conditions
Crested geckos are very hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. They are one of the few species of reptiles that can be kept in a warm room without special heating or lighting, and they can also tolerate humidity levels as low as 30%. Therefore you won’t need any special type of lighting or a heater that will increase your electricity bill. Plus, they can live for a very long time.
8. They Rarely Bite or Scratch When Held
Crested geckos are generally calm and easy to handle. Unlike some other reptiles that bite when handled, cresties do not typically bite or scratch, making them ideal for those who are new to reptile keeping. This makes them the better option for kids and adults who love playing with their pets.
9. They Are Very Active
Crested geckos are entertaining to watch and can be quite active. They often explore their surroundings and climb on branches and leaves, making them an interesting addition to any home.
10. They Have Prehensile Tails
The tails of some reptiles, including crested geckos, have adapted in such a way that they can hold or grasp onto objects. This skill is essential since they live in dense forests, where they use their prehensile tails as an extra arm or leg.
Crested geckos use their prehensile tails to swing from one branch to another. So when you hold this adorable little crested gecko, they can wrap their tails around your finger, and that’s their way of telling you that they’re enjoying your company and that they trust you.
Final Verdict
I’m sure you now want one of those crested geckos to keep as a pet. But hold on… For you to make the most out of it, you must first do some tasks like making it home that’s comfortable and similar to its natural habitat. Do your assignment to learn about its diet and ensure that the terrarium has just the right heating and lighting. When you fulfill all these, I bet your pet will be comfortable, and you’ll get to love its company.