Care & Products

Reptiles are fascinating pets that bring a touch of the wild into our homes. From the curious crested gecko reptiles to the hardy bearded dragon, these animals can live long, happy lives with the right care. If you’re a first-time reptile owner or looking to expand your scaly family, understanding what do lizards eat, how to house them, and how to keep them healthy is key. At EcoPetEssentials, we know that sustainable, safe reptile care benefits not just your pet but also the planet. In this blog, we are going to look at everything you need to know about geckos, baby lizards, and proper reptile habitats.

Crested Gecko Species

The crested gecko, also known as the eyelash gecko, is a small lizard named for the fringe-like crests running down its body. This species of cute gecko was once thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994 on the New Caledonia islands.

• Size: 5–8 inches long
• Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Care Level: Beginner-friendly
• Habitat: Minimum 20-gallon, tall terrarium

Crested geckos are excellent jumpers and are known for their quirky habit of using their tongues to clean their eyes. They’re also nocturnal, meaning they’re most active at night.

Crested Gecko Care Essentials

Caring for crested geckos is easier when you follow a crested gecko care guide or a crested gecko care sheet. We made a list of some basics that every reptile parent should know:

➺Habitat Setup

A crested gecko terrarium should be tall, not wide, since these geckos love to climb. You can add branches, vines, and safe plants for enrichment. It is important that you add two hiding spots: one in the warm zone and one in the cooler zone.

➺Temperature & Humidity

• Warm side: 72–75°F
• Cool side: 68–75°F
• Humidity: 70–80%

You can use thermometers and hygrometers daily to maintain safe conditions. It is important that you avoid temperatures above 80°F, as crested geckos are sensitive to overheating.

➺Light & Heat

While nocturnal, crested geckos still benefit from UVB exposure for calcium absorption. You can provide 10–12 hours of UV light daily. You can also use a thermostat with heat sources to prevent burns.

➺Handling

You should never grab a gecko by the tail. We all know that lizards tend to lose their tail when threatened by predators as a distraction to escape to safety. Therefore, your pet crested gecko reptiles can drop off and won’t grow back. You have to handle them gently, over soft surfaces, and limit handling during shedding. If you are looking for a Nocturnal Animals List, then you are at the right place! 

What Do Geckos Eat?

A common question owners ask is, “What do geckos eat?” In captivity, geckos should be given a nutritionally complete powdered diet mixed with water. If you’re wondering, what do baby lizards eat? We are here to help you out. Insects like crickets or mealworms (gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and vitamins) can be added once or twice a week. Some geckos also enjoy fruit purees as treats.

• Staple Gecko Food: Commercial powdered diets
• Treats: Soft fruits like banana or mango
• Insects: Gut-loaded crickets, Dubia roaches, and mealworms

Now, you have the answer to your question: what do I feed a gecko? 

What Do Baby Geckos Eat?

Baby reptiles need special care. We see owners often ask, “What do baby geckos eat?” or “What do newborn geckos eat?”

• Newborn Geckos: Tiny crickets, fruit flies, or powdered gecko food.
• Baby Geckos: Small crickets or mealworms (smaller than their head) daily.
• Baby Lizards in General: Species-specific diets. Some are insectivores, while others may eat small amounts of fruit.

Baby geckos are fragile, so gut-loading feeder insects and dusting them with calcium is important for preventing bone disease.

Bearded Dragon Lifespan and Care

Another popular reptile is the bearded dragon. They are known for their calm nature. These lizards are great for beginners. Many pet owners ask: “What’s the bearded dragon lifespan?”

• Average Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity
• Diet: Insects, vegetables, and occasional fruit
• Habitat: Large, warm enclosures with UVB lighting

Bearded dragons require a basking spot around 95–110°F and a cooler side around 75–85°F. You can make sure that your cute gecko stays healthy for many years through a varied diet and consistent access to UV light.

Crested Gecko Supply Checklist

To keep your gecko thriving, stock up on:

• Commercial gecko food
• Calcium and vitamin supplements
• Thermometers & hygrometers
• Safe substrate (no sand or walnut shells)
• Climbing decor & plants
• Water and food dishes

Sustainable Reptile Care With EcoPetEssentials

Reptiles like crested geckos, baby lizards, Hemidactylus frenatus (common house lizard), and bearded dragons can thrive for many years with the right diet, habitat, and handling. You can always research your reptile’s specific needs. You can search for our blog, “What do geckos eat?” or simply Google “how to set up a proper crested gecko terrarium” or “how to extend the bearded dragon lifespan.” At EcoPetEssentials, we provide safe, eco-friendly products that help pet parents create the perfect environment for their reptiles.

FAQs:

➥ How long do crested geckos live?

Crested geckos typically live 15–20 years in captivity with proper care. A balanced diet, correct temperature (72–78°F), humidity (50–70%), and a well-maintained terrarium can help them thrive and even exceed this lifespan.

➥ Why did crested geckos go extinct?

Crested geckos were once thought extinct due to invasive species like fire ants in New Caledonia. Luckily, they were rediscovered in 1994 and are now popular pets with improved care, ensuring their survival.

➥ Do crested geckos like to be held?

Crested geckos don’t “enjoy” being held like cats or dogs. However, they can tolerate gentle handling if trained patiently. Always handle over soft surfaces and never grab their tails, as they can drop them permanently.

➥ How big can a crested gecko get?

A healthy adult crested gecko reaches 7–10 inches in length, weighing 35–55 grams. It usually takes 18–36 months for them to reach full size, though growth rates can vary based on diet and genetics.

➥ Is a house gecko good or bad?

House geckos, such as Hemidactylus frenatus, are harmless to humans. In fact, they’re helpful since they eat mosquitoes, roaches, and bugs. Having them around is beneficial, and they pose no danger if found indoors.

➥ Why are my crested gecko’s pupils so big?

Crested geckos are nocturnal, so their pupils dilate in low light to let in more light for better night vision. Large, round pupils are completely normal and help them see in the dark.