How to Tell if Your Crested Gecko is Ready to Breed?

Before I tell you the sign, I want to ask you a question!

Is your gecko healthy?

Both male and female geckos should be in excellent health and free of parasites or diseases before breeding.

So make sure to do this first!

However, if you see your little guy is healthy enough, look for the signs of sexual maturity:

1) Age and Weight

Crested Geckos typically reach sexual maturity between 9 to 18 months of age.

However, for optimal health and breeding success, I recommend you wait until they are at least 18 months old.

Here are the weight Requirements:

• Females: Should weigh at least 40 grams before breeding.
• Males: Should weigh at least 35 grams before breeding.

2) Physical Maturity

Apart from age and weight, physical maturity is a crucial factor in determining breeding readiness.

Females should ideally weigh at least 40 grams with a tail, and 45 grams without before breeding. 

Males typically mature slightly earlier and weigh around 30 grams.

3) Behaviroul Changes

You’ll also notice some changes in how they behave!

Grown-up crested geckos usually go through a breeding cycle that lasts about eight to nine months, starting around springtime.

You mught see the following signs:

• Increased activity and vocalizations: Males often become more active and may emit chirping sounds to attract females.
• Courtship displays: Males may engage in head bobbing, tail wagging, and other courtship behaviors to impress females.
• Receptiveness to mating: Females ready to breed may become more receptive to the advances of males.

Hope this helps…

FAQs

Q: Are there any physical signs that indicate my Crested Gecko is ready to breed?

Yes, males develop hemipenal bulges at the base of their tail, while females experience a widening of the pelvic area.

Both sexes should exhibit a healthy appearance, active behavior, and good appetite.

Q: How can I tell if my Crested Gecko is male or female?

Males have distinct hemipenal bulges at the base of their tail, while females have a smoother base of the tail.

We have a detailed guidelines in identifying crested gecko gender.

if you want to explore that guide, besure to check that out from here.

Q: When is the best time of year to breed Crested Geckos?

Crested Geckos are seasonal breeders, with their breeding cycle intrinsically linked to natural light and temperature patterns.

They are more likely to exhibit breeding behaviors during spring and summer, which coincides with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours.

This alignment with seasonal changes is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that ensures offspring hatch during periods with ample food resources and favorable environmental conditions for growth and survival.

Q: How should I prepare my Crested Gecko’s enclosure for breeding?

Provide a suitable nesting box with moist substrate, maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels (around 75-80°F and 60-70% humidity), and offer a calcium-rich diet.