Summary: Crested Geckos (Correlophus ciliatus) and Gargoyle Geckos (Rhacodactylus auriculatus) are popular arboreal reptiles known for their gentle nature, ease of care, and variety of colors. Crested Geckos feature fringe-like eyelashes and softer tails, while Gargoyle Geckos have small cranial bumps and a sturdier build. Both species thrive in similar habitats and diets, but differ in temperament—Crested Geckos are more laid-back and sociable, whereas Gargoyle Geckos tend to be more individualistic and slightly larger. Both make excellent beginner reptiles with proper enclosure, humidity, and temperature management.
For reptile enthusiasts and beginner pet owners alike, choosing the perfect gecko can be an exciting yet daunting task. Among the many options available, two species stand out for their striking appearance, ease of care, and charming personalities: the Crested Gecko and the Gargoyle Gecko. These New Caledonian natives are often compared side-by-side due to their similar habitats and care requirements, yet they each bring their flair to the terrarium. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the key differences and similarities between these two geckos, especially when it comes to being colorful, calm, and clingy — traits that many pet owners deeply value.
Introducing the Geckos: Origins and Overview
Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
The Crested Gecko, also affectionately known as the “eyelash gecko,” was once thought extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994. Native to the rainforests of New Caledonia, a remote group of islands in the South Pacific, Crested Geckos have become one of the most popular gecko species in the reptile trade. Their popularity is due to their docile nature, stunning color morphs, and relative ease of care. The signature “crests” that run from above their eyes down the sides of their body give them a distinctive and expressive appearance that captivates owners and breeders alike.
Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus)
The Gargoyle Gecko, another New Caledonian native, is named for its bumpy, ridge-like head structure that resembles the statues seen on gothic buildings. Unlike Crested Geckos, which have a more slender and streamlined appearance, Gargoyle Geckos appear stockier and more muscular. Their bold patterns and intense colorations make them stand out in any reptile collection. While not quite as mainstream as Crested Geckos, their growing popularity among reptile hobbyists suggests they are well on their way to becoming a staple in the pet trade.
The Color Palette: A Show of Vibrancy
Crested Geckos: A Morph Explosion
One of the most attractive features of Crested Geckos is the incredible variety of morphs (genetic variations in color and pattern). From soft creams and yellows to deep reds, chocolate browns, and oranges, there is a morph to suit every aesthetic taste. Popular morphs include:
Harlequin – with bold, broken color patterns
Dalmatian – featuring black spots over any base color
Flame – showcasing a fiery back and a darker base
Tiger – characterized by vertical striping on the body
Crested Geckos can also change shade temporarily depending on their mood, light, or temperature. This is known as “firing up.” When fired up, their colors appear more intense and saturated, while in a “fired down” state, they may look paler or duller.
Gargoyle Geckos: Vivid and Varied
Gargoyle Geckos offer equally captivating colors, often appearing in bold striped or blotched morphs. Their hues can range from silvery grays and whites to vibrant reds and oranges. Unlike Crested Geckos, Gargoyles tend to retain vibrant colors into adulthood — and some even intensify as they age. Common morphs include:
Red Stripe
Orange Blotch
Super Blotch
Marbled and Mosaic
Many Gargoyle Geckos also fire up dramatically, revealing intense coloration that might not be visible at first glance. Their body structure helps display these patterns more clearly, especially when contrasted against their darker base tones.
Both species provide a stunning array of morphs and patterns, making them prized by collectors. If bright, bold colors are a priority, either species could fulfill that desire. Crested Geckos have more well-established morph names and are slightly more common, but Gargoyle Geckos might surprise you with their vibrancy and unique patterning.
Temperament and Handling: Who’s the Calmest Companion?
Crested Geckos: Active but Gentle
Crested Geckos are known for being generally gentle and friendly when handled. They are social creatures that, once accustomed to human interaction, tolerate handling well. That said, they tend to be a bit more active than Gargoyle Geckos — especially juveniles. They may jump from hand to hand or explore their surroundings energetically. While this can be entertaining, it also means they require more attention during handling to ensure they don’t leap unexpectedly to a hard surface, risking injury.
However, with regular and patient interaction, most Crested Geckos become quite docile and even enjoy climbing around their owner. They are best handled in a calm, quiet setting where they feel secure.
Gargoyle Geckos: Solid and Steady
Gargoyle Geckos, in contrast, are much more deliberate in their movements. They tend to be less jumpy and are more likely to cling to the hand or arm of the person handling them. Their strong grip and calm demeanor make them an excellent choice for owners who want a more grounded reptile experience. While some individuals can be food-aggressive or slightly nippy when young, they typically mellow with age and regular, positive interaction.
Gargoyle Geckos also exhibit more terrestrial behaviors than their Crested cousins, often preferring to stay lower in their enclosures or in a secure spot rather than constantly climbing.
Clingy Creatures: Bonding and Interaction
Crested Geckos: Light and Agile Climbers
With adhesive toe pads and a prehensile tail, Crested Geckos are built to climb. They enjoy vertical space and will often cling to glass, leaves, or their owner’s fingers. Their grip is gentle but secure, making them fun to interact with. While they might not cling as tightly as a Gargoyle Gecko, they do form a routine and can become accustomed to spending short periods perched on their human’s shoulder or hand.
Gargoyle Geckos: The Clingers of the Gecko World
Gargoyle Geckos, despite also having adhesive toe pads, don’t climb quite as frequently or as freely as Crested Geckos. What they do excel at is clinging tightly to their human companions. Their stronger grip and calmer nature make them seem more “attached,” literally and figuratively. They’ll often sit quietly in one spot for extended periods, which can feel more interactive to some keepers.
If you’re looking for a gecko that stays with you during handling and feels secure, the Gargoyle Gecko takes the lead. However, Crested Geckos can still form bonds and enjoy limited interactive time if handled regularly.
Habitat and Care Requirements
Enclosure Size and Setup
Both species thrive in vertical enclosures due to their natural climbing behavior. A 20-gallon tall tank or an 18x18x24-inch terrarium is ideal for a single adult gecko of either species. Add plenty of branches, foliage, cork bark, and hiding spots to mimic their rainforest habitat.
Temperature and Humidity
These geckos do not require high heat or UVB lighting, which makes them easy to keep in a typical household room.
| Parameter | Crested Gecko | Gargoyle Gecko |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F (22–25°C) | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Humidity | 60–80% | 50–70% |
| Lighting | Natural or low UVB | Natural or low UVB |
Mist the enclosure once or twice daily to maintain humidity. Both species benefit from a drop in temperature at night to mimic natural conditions.
Feeding and Diet
Both geckos eat a commercial powdered diet such as Pangea, Repashy, or Zoo Med Gecko Food, which is mixed with water to create a fruit-flavored paste. These diets are formulated to meet all their nutritional needs.
In addition, they enjoy live insects like crickets, dubia roaches, or silkworms once or twice a week. Dust insects with calcium and D3 powder for optimal health.
Lifespan, Price, and Availability
Lifespan: Both species can live 15–20 years with proper care.
Price Range:
Crested Geckos: $50 to $500+, depending on morph
Gargoyle Geckos: $100 to $600+ depending on pattern and color
Availability: Crested Geckos are more widely available at pet stores and expos. Gargoyle Geckos are less common but growing in popularity among breeders.
Which Gecko Is Right for You?
Choosing between a Crested Gecko and a Gargoyle Gecko ultimately comes down to personal preference. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
| Trait | Crested Gecko | Gargoyle Gecko |
|---|---|---|
| Color Variety | Excellent | Excellent |
| Handling Friendliness | Active & Jumpy | Calm & Clingy |
| Clinginess | Moderate | ✊ High |
| Care Level | Easy | Easy |
| Availability | Very Common | Less Common |
| Personality | Curious & Playful | Laid-back & Loyal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between Crested Geckos and Gargoyle Geckos?
Crested Geckos have frilled “eyelashes” and softer tails, while Gargoyle Geckos have distinctive cranial bumps and more robust, muscular bodies.
Are Crested Geckos easy to care for?
Yes, Crested Geckos are beginner-friendly—needing moderate humidity, a 20–22 °C temperature range, and a diet of prepared gecko diet plus fruit puree.
Are Gargoyle Geckos good for beginners?
Yes, Gargoyle Geckos are also suitable for beginners, preferring slightly cooler temperatures and enjoying the same diet as Crested Geckos.
How big do Crested and Gargoyle Geckos get?
Adult Crested Geckos grow to about 8 inches from nose to tail tip, while Gargoyle Geckos can reach 9–10 inches.
Do they have different temperaments?
Crested Geckos are typically more calm and social, whereas Gargoyle Geckos can be more territorial and independent.
Can they be housed together?
No—due to different species behaviors and potential aggression, they should be kept in separate enclosures.
Do both species climb?
Yes, both are excellent climbers and thrive in vertically-oriented enclosures with branches and foliage.
What enclosure conditions do they share?
Both need a humid, ventilated environment with foliage, a daytime temperature around 22–26 °C, and nighttime temps down to 18–20 °C.
Can Crested or Gargoyle Geckos drop their tail?
Crested Geckos can drop their tails harmlessly, but they don't regenerate; Gargoyle Geckos can drop theirs, but only regrow slender, scaly stumps.
How long do these geckos live?
With ideal care, Crested Geckos live 15–20 years, and Gargoyle Geckos can reach 15–20+ years in captivity.
