How to Build a Crested Gecko Cage

Crested geckos are a good introductory lizard for those who are not experienced with this kind of pet because they are rather simple to care for. Depending on their age and size, you'll want either a small, plastic tub or a larger aquarium to start out with. You'll want to follow expert advice in what you place in the tank so the gecko is comfortable and safe. Crested geckos, like nearly all of their species, exhibit "a retiring demeanor [and] nocturnal activity patterns," according to "Geckos (Complete Pet Owner's Manual)," by R.D. Bartlett.

Things You'll Need

  • 15-20-gallon aquarium
  • Bedding
  • Plants (real or fake)
  • Water dish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get the proper physical enclosure for your gecko. Very small and younger geckos can spend the first months of their lives in small, plastic tubs with only a few accoutrements, like a fake tree and a water dish. Older geckos need a 15- to 20-gallon aquarium that is tall, in order to house trees, since the animal is arboreal.

    • 2

      Set up your aquarium with a gecko-approved Bed-A-Beast substrate (bedding). Ideally, you would set up a screen at the bottom of the cage, with a thin layer of clay under it, and a 3- to 4-inch layer of bedding above, for drainage purposes. If you're using fake plants, however, this won't be necessary.

    • 3

      Plant several Schefflera and/or Peace Lily plants a few weeks before placing the gecko in the cage. The plants should be given time to grow tall enough for the gecko to climb on, if they aren't already. In addition, you may want an area of moss planted in the bedding.

    • 4

      Add a small water dish in the corner of the cage. Decoration items like old castles or general aquarium-themed material are optional, but may offer the gecko welcome places to hide.

    • 5

      Include other items like portions of egg cartons or small items for the gecko to hide in and climb on. You can add some suction vines for another element that will entertain the creature.

    • 6

      Place the screen lid on the cage and allow the environment to sit for awhile, several days at least. Put the gecko inside after the plants have had a chance to adjust and begin growing.