Crested geckos are one of the most popular reptile pets in the world.
But before you decide to get one, you might wonder: should you get a male or a female?
Because, the sex of a crested gecko can affect its appearance, behavior, health, and compatibility with other geckos.
In this article, I will compare male and female crested geckos and help you decide which one is better for you as a first-time owner.
Let’s move on…
Before You Go, How To Determine The Gender?
Male crested geckos have two bulges on each side of their vent and a line of tiny pores on their thighs, but female crested geckos lack these characteristics.
Look at this image:
However, you can only see these distinctions once the gecko matures, which usually takes about 6 to 12 months.
It’s quite tricky to figure out their gender before that.
Another way to tell if a crested gecko is male or female is by comparing their size.
Usually, male crested geckos are larger and heavier than females, with bigger heads and longer tails.
Keep in mind that this isn’t always a reliable method since some females can grow larger than some males due to their genetics and diet.
Crested Gecko Male VS Female: Pros and Cons
First of all, there are no major differences when keeping them as pets.
Both males and females are active and inquisitive, exploring their whole cage with interest. If cared for properly, both will enjoy healthy, active lives with a lifespan of up to 20 years
However, as with any other pet, both have some advantages and disadvantages as pets.
| Characteristic | Male Crested Gecko | Female Crested Gecko |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Appearance | Larger size and impressive appearance with bigger heads, longer tails, and pronounced crests | Smaller size and more delicate appearance with smaller heads, shorter tails, and less pronounced crests |
| Personality | More active, curious, and adventurous; may be more energetic and interactive | More calm, docile, and less likely to be aggressive or territorial |
| Breeding | Essential if you want to breed, can mate year-round with multiple females | Can lay infertile eggs without mating, may become egg-bound |
| Aggression and Vocalization | More prone to aggression and territoriality; may bite, hiss, or growl | Less likely to show aggression or vocalization |
| Handling | More active and jumpy, may be difficult to handle | Easier to handle due to being less active |
| Compatibility When Housed Together | May fight for dominance and mates, cannot be housed together | Can usually be housed together with fewer issues |
| Health Concerns | Lower risk of calcium deficiency, unhealthy poop, or metabolic bone disease | Higher risk of calcium deficiency or metabolic bone disease |
| Weight and Appetite During Breeding | Less likely to lose weight or appetite during breeding season | More likely to lose weight or appetite during breeding season |
So, How Do You Decide?
As you can see, male and female crested geckos have their own pros and cons as pets.
There’s no clear-cut answer about which one is best for first-time owners because it depends on what you like and your situation.
But, there are some things to think about before picking a male or female crested gecko:
- Size and looks
- Personality and behavior
- Health and breeding
- Availability and cost
F.A.Q.s
Q: Are male or female crested geckos generally more docile as pets?
Both male and female crested geckos can be equally docile and make great pets.
However, individual temperament can vary, so it’s essential to handle and interact with them regularly to establish trust and a positive relationship.
Q: Which gender of crested gecko is more likely to vocalize or “bark”?
Male crested geckos are typically the ones known for their distinctive vocalizations, or “barking.”
This behavior is part of their territorial communication and mating displays.
Q: Which gender is more suitable for breeding crested geckos for beginners?
For beginners, it is often recommended to start with a female crested gecko, as breeding can be more complex and requires a deep understanding of the species.
Breeding should only be undertaken after thorough research and preparation.