Crested Gecko Full Size: How Big Do They Get?

Introduction

Crested geckos are the smallest of the gecko species and can be an excellent starter pet for those who are new to the reptile hobby. They have a reputation for being among the easiest species of pet to care for and often one of the more popular because they display a variety of colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes. A full-grown adult can grow anywhere from 5-10 inches in length, though the majority of geckos sold are around the 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) mark. The small size and lack of need for specialized lighting make them a great choice for beginner caretakers who have limited room or budget.

But how big will my crested gecko get? Well, that depends on what kind you get…

Here are some factors that will contribute to your gecko’s size, as well as some suggestions for raising a large crested gecko:

1. Size at birth

The size of the hatchling you get will play a large role in how big it grows. The majority of crested geckos are between 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length at the time of hatching, though larger sizes do occasionally come from smaller eggs. If you hatch a gecko that is significantly smaller than the average, you will most likely have to keep it in a temporary enclosure until it grows enough to fit into an adult’s cage.

2. Food and temperature requirements

Crested geckos eat a wide variety of foods, but most all of them need to be offering in order to grow properly. In addition to this, you should provide the best quality nutrition your pet can tolerate. A variety of types of food are suitable for crested gecko diet, but protein sources such as blood meal and insects are preferred over fruits and vegetables.

Likewise, you need to make sure that your gecko stays warm enough. If a crested gecko is too cold, it can get sick and can even die. The optimal temperature range for crested geckos is 70-82 degrees F (21-27 degrees C), with a basking spot of 88 degrees F (31 degrees C). Many breeders and keepers find that placing the cage on a heating pad set to the proper temperature range helps ensure warmth without stressing the animal out.

3. Species

There are two species of crested geckos found in captivity: The Borneo and Philippine Crested Gecko. Borneo Crested Geckos are the more common type and can reach larger sizes than the Philippine crested gecko because they have a significantly longer tail and a more pronounced spiny tail tip. A more interesting fact about these models is that their eyes can actually change color, depending on their mood.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing exactly how big a crested gecko can get depends on several factors, but the most important ones to consider are the type of gecko you get and the size it is when it first hatches. It’s best not to buy a small crested from the start so that you’re not disappointed in its size when it gets older. In this case, bigger really is better!