When considering the purchase of a crested gecko, you should account for the total crested gecko price. This includes not only the reptile itself but also the supplies needed to set up its habitat, feed it and care for it properly. Below is a list of the recommended supplies and the average cost of each.
The crested gecko itself will cost anywhere between $50 and $150, depending upon the color and pattern morph. The more popular and less available morphs will be on the costlier side.
The recommended supplies for a crested gecko are:
- Enclosure (Naturalist screen terrarium, 18” x 18” x 24” $100.00; Glass aquarium, 20 gal., minimum of 20” tall $50.00 – $150.00)
- Substrate (Coconut fiber, 3-pack $7.00) – 2 compressed packs is enough for a 20-gallon tank
- Meal Replacement Powder (Repashy Complete Diet, 16 oz. $19.00)
- Supplements (calcium & vitamin D3) $6.00
- Feeder dishes (200 count) $5.00
- Feeder crickets (500 count) $10.00
- Misting bottle $2.00
- Plants (live or artificial) for terrarium $20.00
- Rhacodactylus The Complete Guide by Philippe De Vosjoli, Allen Repashy and Frank Fast (the definitive guide to the crested gecko) $40.00
Of course, when assessing total crested gecko cost, you should keep in mind that the above prices will vary slightly between sellers. In addition, these costs should be considered on a yearly basis depending on the usage of each item. Consider that you will feed your crested gecko every other day and alternate with feeder crickets.
Supplements of calcium and vitamin D3 should be provided when feeding the crested gecko crickets and not the meal replacement powder. The meal replacement powder contains enough of the necessary nutrients to not require supplementation.
Live plants may need to be replaced every so often, as well as the substrate. There are many cost-saving substitutions that can be made. For example, you could use a substrate of paper towels. You could also find a terrarium on an auction site or in the local classified ads.
Overall, crested gecko price is not prohibitive. Actually, the cost of caring for a crested gecko as a pet can be significantly less than that of a dog, for example. Keep in mind, however, that the lifespan of a crested gecko is as much as 20 years. Also consider the cost of any veterinarian needs that may arise.
