Crested gecko baby care is not much different from that of adult gecko care. It is essential for the hatchling gecko to be misted twice daily. They should not be handled frequently and you should make sure they shed properly. Small containers are available for baby geckos that allow maximum viewing so they can be monitored. Their feeding is slightly different and their habitat can be quite simple.
No Excessive Handling
Baby geckos start out at barely an inch long after hatching. They should not be handled as they will be quite skittish until they acclimate to their environment, and frequent handling can cause them stress. Some crested gecko babies become vocal, which involves a chirping sound, while being handled. It is believed they do this to distract you while they escape. They will become calmer and more receptive to handling as they age.
Housing
Containers or 5-gallon aquariums with a screen lid make good enclosures for the baby gecko. You can house up to three geckos in this size container until they are approximately 3-4 months old. Keep the habitat simple so that the babies can find their food easily. Simply use layers of paper towels for a substrate and add cork bark. Place some greenery inside for hiding places and to make them feel secure.
Feeding
The crested gecko baby does not eat until after their first shed, which is generally 3-5 days after hatching. During these days, they get their nourishment from the absorption of egg yolk. Once you start feeding your hatchling, start with 1/8” to 1/2″ crickets and fruit baby food. Dust their food with calcium and vitamin D3 daily. There are also special dietary foods that can be used.
Provide the gecko with a shallow water dish. This is used to keep their skin moist, which is important for their proper shedding. Make sure the water dish is not too deep because the baby gecko can drown.
Shedding
Make sure the gecko sheds properly. The unshed skin can restrict blood flow to the animal’s legs and tail, which can eventually fall off. This can be avoided if you provide sufficient moisture. Mist the gecko twice daily, supply fresh water in a shallow dish and keep the humidity level high in the enclosure.
To provide the proper crested gecko baby care, remember not to handle them frequently, provide simple housing, make sure they get the correct nutrients when they start to feed and observe them to make sure they shed properly.
