If you’re a reptile enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the crested gecko. But have you ever seen a lavender crested gecko? These unique creatures are a special variant of the popular pet gecko that have captured the hearts of many reptile lovers.
Caring for a lavender crested gecko is relatively easy, making them a perfect choice for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike. They are mainly arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees, so providing them with a spacious terrarium with plenty of climbing branches and hiding spots is essential. Their diet primarily consists of fruit purees, baby food, and commercially available gecko diets, making feeding them a breeze.
One of the most exciting aspects of owning a lavender crested gecko is their ability to change colors. They can darken or lighten their skin depending on their mood, temperature, and camouflage needs. This color-changing ability adds an extra level of fascination to these already captivating creatures.
Choosing a Lavender Crested Gecko
- Appearance: Lavender crested geckos have a distinctive light purple coloration, hence their name. However, the intensity of their lavender hue can vary from gecko to gecko. Some may have a deeper purple shade, while others may be more pastel in color. Take the time to observe different lavender crested geckos and choose one that appeals to you visually.
- Temperament: While lavender crested geckos are generally known for their docile nature, individual geckos can vary in temperament. If you plan on handling your gecko frequently, it’s best to choose one that is calm and comfortable with being handled. Observe the gecko’s behavior and ask the breeder or seller about its temperament.
- Source: It’s essential to source your lavender crested gecko from a reputable breeder or seller. This ensures that you are getting a healthy and well-cared-for gecko. Research different breeders or sellers and check their reviews or ask for recommendations from experienced reptile enthusiasts.
- Compatibility: If you plan on keeping multiple crested geckos together, it’s crucial to consider their compatibility. While crested geckos are generally known to be social animals, some individuals may display aggression towards each other. It’s best to introduce geckos of similar size and avoid keeping males together to prevent territorial disputes.
By considering these factors and taking your time to choose the right lavender crested gecko, you can ensure that you have a beautiful and healthy pet that will bring you joy for years to come.
Housing and Setup for your Lavender Crested Gecko
Creating the proper housing and setup for your lavender crested gecko is essential for its overall health and well-being. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Tank Size: The size of the tank or enclosure should be large enough to accommodate the gecko comfortably. A 20-gallon tank is generally suitable for one adult lavender crested gecko.
2. Substrate: Use a substrate that mimics the gecko’s natural environment, such as coconut fiber or reptile carpet. Avoid substrates that can cause impaction, such as loose sand or small gravel.
3. Lighting: Provide a light source that mimics the natural day-night cycle. Use a low-wattage UVB bulb to provide essential UVB radiation for proper calcium metabolism.
4. Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature range of 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, with a slight drop to the low 70s at night. The humidity level should be kept between 50-70% to ensure proper shedding and hydration.
5. Hiding Spots: Provide multiple hiding spots in the enclosure to allow the gecko to feel secure. Use hides made of cork bark or other suitable materials.
6. Branches and Plants: Add branches or artificial plants to create a naturalistic environment that the gecko can climb and explore. Ensure that any plants used are non-toxic to reptiles.
7. Water Source: Provide a shallow water dish for the gecko to drink from. Clean and refill the dish regularly to ensure freshness.
8. Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly clean the enclosure by removing waste and replacing substrate as needed. Also, sanitize the enclosure periodically to prevent the buildup of bacteria or parasites.
9. Avoid Overcrowding: Do not house multiple adult geckos together unless they are a breeding pair. Overcrowding can lead to stress, aggression, and health issues.
By providing a suitable housing and setup for your lavender crested gecko, you can ensure its comfort and promote its overall health and happiness.
| Factors to Consider | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | 20-gallon tank for one adult gecko |
| Substrate | Coconut fiber or reptile carpet |
| Lighting | Low-wattage UVB bulb |
| Temperature and Humidity | 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit, 50-70% humidity |
| Hiding Spots | Cork bark or other suitable hides |
| Branches and Plants | Non-toxic branches or artificial plants |
| Water Source | Shallow water dish |
| Cleaning and Maintenance | Regular substrate changes and enclosure sanitization |
| Avoid Overcrowding | Do not house multiple adult geckos together |
Feeding and Diet for Lavender Crested Geckos
Proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of lavender crested geckos. These geckos are primarily insectivores, meaning their diet consists mainly of insects. However, they can also consume fruit puree and commercially available crested gecko diets.
The primary source of nutrition for lavender crested geckos should be live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. These insects should be gut-loaded, meaning they should be fed a nutritious diet before being offered to the geckos. Dusting the insects with calcium and vitamin supplements is also important to ensure the geckos get all the necessary nutrients.
Commercially available crested gecko diets are a convenient option for feeding lavender crested geckos. These diets are specially formulated to meet their nutritional needs and usually come in powdered form. The powder can be mixed with water to create a paste-like consistency, which can be offered to the gecko using a spoon or a shallow dish.
Note: Always research and consult with a reptile veterinarian to ensure you are providing the appropriate nutrition and diet for your lavender crested gecko.
Handling and Taming your Lavender Crested Gecko
Handling and taming your lavender crested gecko is an important aspect of caring for these unique creatures. While they are generally docile and easy to handle, it is essential to take the proper steps to ensure their comfort and safety.
Getting Started
Before you begin handling your lavender crested gecko, it is crucial to give them some time to acclimate to their new environment. This will help reduce their stress levels and make them more receptive to handling.
Approaching your Gecko
It is also crucial to wash your hands before handling your gecko to remove any scent or residue that might be off-putting to them. This will help them feel more comfortable and allow them to focus on being handled rather than being in defensive mode.
Creating a Bond
Building trust and creating a bond with your lavender crested gecko takes time and patience. Start by offering them treats, such as small insects or fruit puree, from your hand. This will help them associate you with positive experiences and create a positive reinforcement for them.
Handling Tips
- Always handle your lavender crested gecko with clean, dry hands to avoid any potential harm or discomfort.
- Handle your gecko close to the ground or over a soft surface, in case they accidentally fall or jump.
- Avoid handling your gecko during shedding or when they appear stressed or unwell.
Remember, every gecko is unique, and some individuals may need more time and patience to become comfortable with handling. Always observe their body language and behavior to ensure their well-being and adjust your handling techniques accordingly.
By following these tips and consistently working on building trust and a bond with your lavender crested gecko, you can create a positive and enriching handling experience for both you and your pet.
Common Health Issues in Lavender Crested Geckos
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): MBD is a common health concern in crested geckos due to their high calcium requirements. It occurs when geckos don’t receive enough calcium or proper UVB lighting, leading to weak bones and deformed limbs. To prevent MBD, it is essential to provide a calcium-rich diet and UVB lighting.
Reproductive Issues: Female lavender crested geckos can sometimes experience problems with egg-binding, where they are unable to lay their eggs. This can be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary intervention. To reduce the risk of egg-binding, provide a suitable nesting area and ensure the female has proper calcium levels.
Respiratory Infections: Lavender crested geckos are susceptible to respiratory infections, especially if they are kept in an environment with high humidity and inadequate ventilation. Signs of respiratory infection include wheezing, labored breathing, and nasal discharge. Keeping their enclosure clean, providing proper ventilation, and maintaining appropriate humidity levels can help prevent respiratory issues.
Parasites: Lavender crested geckos can become infested with internal and external parasites, such as mites, ticks, and worms. Regularly check your gecko for any signs of parasites, such as excessive itching, weight loss, or visible parasites. If you suspect your gecko has parasites, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Impaction: Impaction occurs when a gecko ingests substrate or foreign objects that cannot be properly digested, leading to blockages in their digestive system. Avoid using loose substrates like sand or gravel and provide a clean and safe enclosure to prevent impaction. If you suspect impaction, consult a veterinarian for guidance on how to assist your gecko in passing the blockage.
Stress: Lavender crested geckos can experience stress, which can result in loss of appetite, weight loss, and other health issues. Provide a suitable and secure enclosure, minimize handling and disturbances, and maintain stable environmental conditions to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Regularly monitoring your lavender crested gecko’s health, providing proper care, and seeking veterinary assistance when needed can help ensure their well-being and longevity.
Breeding and Reproduction of Lavender Crested Geckos
Before introducing the male and female geckos, make sure they are healthy and in optimal condition. It is recommended to have them checked by a reptile veterinarian to ensure they are free of any diseases or parasites. Additionally, provide them with a proper diet to ensure they have the necessary nutrients for reproduction.
Mating and Egg Laying
Lavender crested geckos are typically housed separately, so you will need to introduce the male and female geckos for breeding purposes. This can be done by placing the male gecko in the female’s enclosure or by temporarily moving the female to the male’s enclosure.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs in the spring and early summer, the male gecko will perform a series of courtship displays to attract the female. This may include head bobbing, tail wagging, and vocalizations. If the female is receptive, she will allow the male to approach and mate with her.
Incubation and Hatching
The eggs of lavender crested geckos will typically take around 60 to 90 days to hatch. Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level during the incubation period to ensure healthy development of the embryos. It is recommended to keep the eggs in a separate incubation container to prevent any disturbance or damage.
Conclusion:
Breeding lavender crested geckos can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By ensuring the health and well-being of your geckos and providing them with optimal conditions for breeding and reproduction, you can increase the chances of successful breeding and the production of healthy offspring.
One of the most characteristic features of lavender crested geckos is their crests. These geckos have a row of soft, fringed scales that run along their back, starting from the head and extending down to the tail. The crests can be raised or lowered, depending on the gecko’s mood or level of comfort.
In addition to their crests, lavender crested geckos can also have different patterns on their bodies. Some geckos have speckled or blotchy patterns, while others may have banded patterns or even solid colors. The patterns can be a combination of different shades of lavender or other colors. Each lavender crested gecko is unique, and their patterns can vary significantly.
One of the most striking features of lavender crested geckos is their pattern. These geckos can exhibit intricate patterns, such as spots, stripes, and even marbling. The patterns can vary from gecko to gecko, making each individual lavender crested gecko truly one-of-a-kind.
In addition to lavender, crested geckos can also come in different base colors, such as red, orange, yellow, and brown. These base colors can further enhance the overall appearance of the gecko, creating a stunning visual display.
If you are interested in acquiring a lavender crested gecko with specific colors or patterns, it is recommended to do thorough research and communicate with reputable breeders. They can provide valuable insights and guidance on the different morphs and genetic traits that can lead to specific colors and patterns.
| Colors | Patterns |
|---|---|
| Lavender | Spots |
| Red | Stripes |
| Orange | Marbling |
| Yellow | |
| Brown |
