Key Takeaway:
- Both crested and gargoyle geckos are small to medium-sized arboreal lizards native to New Caledonia and have a similar lifespan of up to 20 years with proper care.
- While both species are generally docile, gargoyle geckos are known to be calmer and more laid-back than crested geckos.
- However, crested geckos are more active and enjoy climbing and jumping, while gargoyle geckos are more slow-moving and prefer to stay in one place.
- Both species have similar dietary requirements and feed on a diet of fruit, insects, and commercially available gecko diets.
If you’re considering getting a pet reptile, you may have come across crested geckos and gargoyle geckos as popular options.
Both of these species of geckos are known for their unique physical characteristics and ease of care, making them appealing choices for new reptile enthusiasts.
However, there are some key differences between crested and gargoyle geckos that may influence your decision.
In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two gecko species, so you can make an informed choice about which one is the right fit for you.
Crested Gecko Overview
Crested geckos are small to medium-sized arboreal lizards that are native to New Caledonia.
One of their distinct features is the crest of skin along their head and back.
These lizards are known to have a docile temperament, and they are relatively easy to care for. With proper care, they can live up to 20 years.
They feed on a diet of fruit, insects, and commercially available gecko diets.
Gargoyle Gecko Overview
Gargoyle geckos are another small to medium-sized arboreal lizard species native to New Caledonia, like crested geckos.
Unlike their counterparts, gargoyle geckos are named for their bumpy, gargoyle-like appearance.
They are known for being calmer and more laid-back than crested geckos.
Gargoyle geckos require similar care to crested geckos but may need more humidity in their enclosure. With proper care, they can live up to 20 years.
Like crested geckos, they also feed on a diet of fruit, insects, and commercially available gecko diets.
Crested Gecko vs Gargoyle Gecko Comparison
Lifespan
Both Crested Geckos and Gargoyle Geckos have a similar lifespan of up to 20 years with proper care.
Temperament
While both species are generally docile, Gargoyle Geckos are known to be calmer and more laid-back than Crested Geckos.
Therefore, they may be a better choice for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed pet.
Activity
Crested Geckos are more active and enjoy climbing and jumping, while Gargoyle Geckos are more slow-moving and prefer to stay in one place.
Habitat
Both species are small to medium-sized arboreal lizards native to New Caledonia, so they require a similar habitat with plenty of vertical space and hiding places.
However, Gargoyle Geckos may need more humidity in their enclosure compared to Crested Geckos.
Diet
Both species have similar dietary requirements and feed on a diet of fruit, insects, and commercially available gecko diets.
Cage Requirements
Both species require a similar cage setup with plenty of vertical space, hiding places, and climbing branches.
However, Gargoyle Geckos may need more humidity in their enclosure.
Price
The price for both Crested Geckos and Gargoyle Geckos varies depending on the morph and age of the gecko, but generally, Gargoyle Geckos tend to be more expensive than Crested Geckos.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Crested Gecko
Crested Gecko Pros:
- Docile temperament and easy to handle
- Low maintenance, with a simple diet and easy-to-clean enclosure
- Long lifespan of up to 20 years with proper care
- Come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them visually appealing pets
Crested Gecko Cons:
- May not be as active or interactive as some other pet reptiles
- Require specific humidity levels and temperature ranges in their enclosure
- Can be prone to certain health issues, such as metabolic bone disease
Pros and Cons of Owning a Gargoyle Gecko
Gargoyle Gecko Pros:
- Calm and laid-back temperament, making them easy to handle and less likely to bite
- Similar care requirements to crested geckos, with a simple diet and basic enclosure needs
- Unique appearance with a bumpy, gargoyle-like texture
- Can live up to 20 years with proper care
Gargoyle Gecko Cons:
- May require higher humidity levels than crested geckos, which can be challenging to maintain
- Not as commonly available as crested geckos, which can make finding one for purchase more difficult
- Generally more expensive than crested geckos, with some morphs costing several hundred dollars
Crested Gecko vs Gargoyle Gecko: Which To Choose?
If you are looking for a pet that is generally more docile and easy to handle, the crested gecko may be a better fit for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a pet that is more laid-back and requires more humidity in its enclosure, the gargoyle gecko may be the better option.
In terms of lifespan, both species can live up to 20 years with proper care, so that should not be a major factor in your decision.
The diet and cage requirements for both geckos are similar, so that should not be a deciding factor either.
One potential factor to consider is the price, as gargoyle geckos can be more expensive than crested geckos due to their relative rarity.
However, this should not be the primary factor in your decision, as the cost of the gecko is a one-time expense while the ongoing costs of care are more significant.
Summary
Ultimately, the decision to choose between a crested gecko and a gargoyle gecko as a pet depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and experience level.
The most important thing is to do your research and choose a pet that fits your lifestyle and experience level, as well as one that you will enjoy caring for and interacting with for many years to come.
