How to Keep Crested Geckos Cool in the Summer

Crested geckos thrive at a temperature between 72 and 80 degrees. At higher temperatures, particularly above 85 degrees, they will become stressed. This may lead to illness or even death. A reptile-safe digital thermometer with a temperature probe is a must when keeping these geckos in captivity. If your gecko becomes overheated, seems lethargic or is sticky to the touch, treat the situation as an emergency.

Things You'll Need

  • Digital thermometer
  • Misting spray bottle
  • Fan
  • Ice
Show More

Instructions

  1. Routine Summer Care

    • 1

      Turn off or unplug heat lamps or heat-emitting lights during the hottest part of the day. Geckos require 10 to 12 hours of full-spectrum lighting each day, so alter their lighting schedule accordingly.

    • 2

      Provide plenty of shade for your geckos if they are housed outdoors under natural sunlight.

    • 3

      Mist your gecko's habitat. Most geckos prefer to drink water that has accumulated on leaves and substrate rather than from water dishes. Generally, a humidity of 50 percent is ideal for crested geckos.

    • 4

      Provide ventilation by replacing tight-fitting hoods with screens. Place a fan near the vivarium to add air movement over the top of the tank.

    In an Emergency

    • 5

      Place the gecko in a cool area away from sunlight.

    • 6

      Place plastic bags of ice around the vivarium. Use towels between the bags and the vivarium, and do not place the gecko up against the glass, or the gecko may cool down too quickly.

    • 7

      Angle a fan to blow over an open bag or tray of ice onto the vivarium. This delivers cool air to the tank.