Key Takeaway:
- Crested geckos are generally considered to be better pets for beginners due to their ease of care, gentle nature, and lower price point.
- Tokay geckos, on the other hand, can be more challenging to care for and may not be as suitable for inexperienced reptile owners.
- Both species have their own unique set of pros and cons.
- Crested geckos are easy to handle and don’t require special lighting, but they may be more prone to health issues and have more specific dietary requirements.
- Tokay geckos are hardy and can make fascinating display animals, but they can be aggressive and may require more specialized care.
Geckos are one of the most popular reptile pets, known for their unique appearance and ease of care.
Two of the most popular gecko species for pet owners are the Crested Gecko and Tokay Gecko.
While both species make great pets, there are some key differences between them that potential owners should consider before making a decision.
Crested Gecko Overview
The crested gecko, also known as the eyelash gecko, is a small, arboreal lizard that originates from New Caledonia.
They are popular as pets due to their easy care and gentle temperament. Crested geckos are typically around 8 inches in length and can live up to 20 years with proper care.
They are known for their unique appearance, with a wide range of colors and patterns.
Tokay Gecko Overview
The Tokay gecko is a large, arboreal gecko that is native to Southeast Asia. They are known for their bright colors and distinctive call, which sounds like “to-kay.”
Tokay geckos can grow up to a foot in length and live up to 20 years with proper care.
While they are more challenging to care for than crested geckos, they are popular among experienced reptile owners due to their unique appearance and fascinating behaviors.
Crested Gecko vs Tokay Gecko Comparison
Lifespan
Both the crested gecko and the tokay gecko can live for up to 20 years with proper care and husbandry.
Temperament
Crested geckos are known for their gentle, docile temperament, making them great pets for beginners.
Tokay geckos, on the other hand, are known for their feisty and aggressive behavior, making them more suitable for experienced owners.
Activity
Crested geckos are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding during the day. They are arboreal, meaning they climb trees and other surfaces.
Tokay geckos are also nocturnal but are more active than crested geckos. They are also arboreal and require plenty of climbing space.
Habitat
Crested geckos require a relatively small terrarium, as they are not very active during the day.
They also require a humid environment and plenty of hiding spots. Tokay geckos require a larger enclosure with plenty of climbing space, hiding spots, and a basking area.
Diet
Crested geckos are omnivores, eating a diet of insects, fruits, and commercially available gecko diets. Tokay geckos are carnivores and primarily eat insects.
Cage Requirements
Crested geckos require a terrarium of at least 20 gallons, while Tokay geckos require a terrarium of at least 30 gallons.
Both require ample vertical space and foliage for enrichment.
Price
They are both priced similarly due to the large variety of colors and patterns available. You can get either gecko for anywhere around $50 to $500.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Crested Gecko
Pros of Owning a Crested Gecko:
- Low Maintenance: Crested geckos are low-maintenance pets, which makes them ideal for busy owners. They require minimal attention and care.
- Docile: Crested geckos are generally docile and easy to handle. They are unlikely to bite or scratch their owners, making them good pets for families with children.
- Long Lifespan: Crested geckos can live up to 20 years in captivity, which means they can be a long-term companion for owners.
- Unique Appearance: Crested geckos have a unique appearance with their crests, fringes, and patterns. They are available in various colors, making them visually appealing pets.
Cons of Owning a Crested Gecko:
- Nocturnal: Crested geckos are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. This can be a disadvantage for owners who prefer to interact with their pets during the day.
- Fragile: Crested geckos are fragile pets, and owners need to be careful when handling them. Rough handling can cause injury or even death.
- Special Diet: Crested geckos require a special diet that includes fruit and insect-based food. Owners need to ensure that they provide a balanced and nutritious diet to their pets.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Tokay Gecko
Pros of Owning a Tokay Gecko:
- Unique Appearance: Tokay geckos have a unique appearance, which makes them visually appealing pets. They have bright colors and distinctive patterns on their skin.
- Low Maintenance: Tokay geckos are low-maintenance pets, which makes them ideal for busy owners. They require minimal attention and care.
- Long Lifespan: Tokay geckos can live up to 20 years in captivity, which means they can be a long-term companion for owners.
Cons of Owning a Tokay Gecko:
- Aggressive: Tokay geckos are known for their aggressive behavior and can be difficult to handle. They are not recommended for families with children or inexperienced owners.
- Nocturnal: Tokay geckos are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. This can be a disadvantage for owners who prefer to interact with their pets during the day.
- Loud Calls: Tokay geckos are known for their loud calls, which can be disturbing for owners and neighbors. They may not be suitable pets for apartments or close living quarters.
Crested Gecko vs Tokay Gecko: Which To Choose?
The choice between a crested gecko and a tokay gecko as a pet ultimately depends on the owner’s personal preferences and circumstances. Here are a few factors to consider when making the decision:
Temperament
Crested geckos are generally considered easier to handle and more docile than tokay geckos, which are known for their aggressive behavior.
If you are a first-time reptile owner or have young children, a crested gecko may be a better choice.
Activity level
Both species are relatively inactive during the day and more active at night.
However, tokay geckos are known to be more active and require more space to move around.
If you have a smaller enclosure or limited space, a crested gecko may be a better fit.
Habitat and care requirements
Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they prefer to climb and perch, while tokay geckos are terrestrial and prefer to stay on the ground.
This means they require different types of enclosures and may have different care requirements.
It’s important to research the specific needs of each species to ensure you can provide a suitable habitat.
Price
Both species are generally affordable and similar in price. However, the cost may vary depending on factors such as age, color morph, and breeder.
Summary
In summary, the decision between a crested gecko and a tokay gecko as a pet depends on factors such as temperament, activity level, habitat requirements, and price.
It’s important to research both species and their specific needs before making a decision.
