Crested Gecko Complete Lighting and Heating Guide

The Crested Gecko has become one of the most popular reptile pets due to its cute appearance, low-maintenance nature, and ability to thrive at room temperature. But is room temperature really the best for these little creatures? And what exactly is considered "room temperature"? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the lighting and heating requirements for your beloved Crested Gecko.

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Finding the Perfect Lighting Setup

There isn't one "correct" way to set up lighting for your Crested Gecko since what works for one may not work for another. It's crucial to consider the ambient temperature of your space when choosing lighting. If your room is naturally warm, adding extra lighting to your gecko's enclosure may not be safe. On the other hand, if your room is cool, you may need additional lighting to raise the enclosure temperature to a more suitable level.

Best Lighting Options for Crested Geckos

Crested Geckos don't necessarily require UVB or full spectrum lighting to survive. However, offering them UVB light at the proper strength and distance can be beneficial, even though it's not essential.

For a Crested Gecko, a low-level UVB bulb designed for shade dwelling species is ideal. It should be mounted above the screen without any glass or plastic underneath, as UV light cannot penetrate solid materials. Refer to the distance guide provided by the manufacturer to determine the appropriate distance for your UV light. If you're using a UVI meter, aim for a UVI output of 1.0 or less in the areas your gecko can access.

Recommended UVB bulbs for Crested Geckos include:

• ZooMed 5.0 T8 linear UVB
• Arcadia 6% UVB
• Arcadia ShadeDweller

In addition to UVB lighting, you may also choose to provide a full spectrum light to your Crested Gecko, particularly if they will be living in a bioactive enclosure. While UVB lighting doesn't benefit plant growth, a full spectrum grow light replicates the color spectrum of the sun and promotes plant growth. It also offers your gecko a natural light spectrum.

If you're trying to raise the temperature in the enclosure because your room is cool, using a UVB and full spectrum light can increase the temperature by 10-15ºF+ at the top of the enclosure. This creates a natural, low-level heat source and thermal gradient inside the enclosure. However, if your room is naturally warmer, closely monitor the temperature to ensure it doesn't exceed 80ºF, which can be fatal for your Crested Gecko. Allow the lights to heat up for several hours before measuring the temperature using a digital probe thermostat and infrared temperature gun.

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Debunking the Need for Night Lights

Contrary to popular belief, Crested Geckos do not need night lights. Adding night lights can disrupt their circadian rhythm. Crested Geckos are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dim light and darkness. They eat, hunt, and explore during these hours. It's best to leave the enclosure dark at night to provide a natural photoperiod for your gecko.

To maintain a proper light cycle, ensure that your Crested Gecko receives 14 hours of light in warmer months and 10 hours of light in colder months. The shorter light cycle during colder months provides your gecko with a natural cooling cycle similar to its natural habitat. A well-regulated light cycle encourages seasonal regulation, improves appetite, and promotes overall health.

Unraveling the Mystery of Basking Lights

Unlike some reptiles, Crested Geckos typically do not require a basking light. They are temperature-sensitive creatures, and their ambient temperature should stay below 80ºF. Temperatures in the low to mid 80's without a chance to escape can lead to heat stress, heat stroke, and even death within a short period of time. However, Crested Geckos do benefit from a thermal gradient that allows them to regulate their body temperature. By providing a warm area at the top of the enclosure and a cooler area at the bottom, you create an ideal thermal gradient for your gecko.

For most homes, a UVB and full spectrum light combination provides the ideal thermal gradient for Crested Geckos. The warm area should range from 82-85°F (28-29°C) at the top, while the cool area should be around 70-75°F (21-24°C) at the bottom. The nighttime temperature can drop to 65-72°F (18-22°C).

If your enclosure requires additional heat, always use a thermostat to ensure safety. Start with a low-wattage incandescent or halogen bulb connected to a dimmer and a thermostat. Keep in mind that in smaller or grow-out enclosures, it may not be possible to provide UVB or full spectrum lighting without overheating the enclosure. In such cases, it's safer to avoid offering lighting altogether than to risk overheating.

Remember, it's better for a Crested Gecko to be slightly cooler than too warm.

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Maintaining Optimal Humidity Levels

Crested Geckos thrive in humidity levels between 60-80%. You can achieve and maintain this range by misting the enclosure daily and using a moisture-retentive substrate. However, be sure to let the substrate dry out to around 50% or 40% before misting again. Continuous moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can make your gecko sick.

Misting is the best way to ensure your gecko stays hydrated. While they may occasionally drink from a dish, they prefer to lick water droplets off plants and the enclosure walls.

Proper humidity levels are crucial for your gecko's health. When misting, use tap water rather than distilled, softened, or filtered water. Tap water contains essential minerals that contribute to your gecko's well-being. Although cleaning up water spots may be necessary, it's a small price to pay for your gecko's health.

Pro Tip: Use a lemon juice-soaked cotton ball to scrub off hard water deposits easily. For severe buildup, you can scrape it off with a razor blade.

The Truth about Heat at Night

Generally, Crested Geckos do not require heat at night. A temperature drop into the mid-60's is perfectly safe and acceptable for these reptiles. However, if your house temperature falls below the low 60's, it's advisable to consider using a low-wattage ceramic heat emitter connected to a thermostat or a small space heater with a thermostat in the room where your gecko resides. Always ensure that heat sources are properly connected to thermostats, as Crested Geckos are highly sensitive to heat.

With this comprehensive guide, you now have the knowledge to create an ideal lighting and heating setup for your Crested Gecko. Remember to provide suitable lighting, maintain a proper light cycle, offer a thermal gradient, and monitor humidity levels. By creating an optimal environment for your gecko, you can ensure its health and well-being for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do Crested Geckos need UVB lighting?

A: Crested Geckos don't require UVB lighting to survive, but offering it at the proper strength and distance can be beneficial for their overall health.

Q: Can I use full spectrum lighting for my Crested Gecko?

A: Yes, full spectrum lighting can be used to provide growth for plants in a bioactive enclosure and replicate a natural light spectrum for your gecko.

Q: Do Crested Geckos need a basking light?

A: Typically, Crested Geckos do not require a basking light. However, they benefit from a thermal gradient that allows them to regulate their body temperature.

Q: What are the ideal temperature ranges for a Crested Gecko's enclosure?

A: The warm area should be around 82-85°F (28-29°C), the cool area should be around 70-75°F (21-24°C), and the nighttime temperature can drop to 65-72°F (18-22°C).

Q: How should I maintain humidity levels for my Crested Gecko?

A: Mist the enclosure daily and use a moisture-retentive substrate. Allow the substrate to dry out to around 50% or 40% before misting again to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Q: Do Crested Geckos need heat at night?

A: Generally, Crested Geckos do not require heat at night. A nighttime temperature drop into the mid-60's is safe for them.

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