Crested Gecko

Scientific Name: Correlophus ciliatus

DID YOU KNOW?

• Crested geckos have a relatively large, triangular head, with two large eyes and two relatively large ear openings on either side of the head. Very fine light tan, peach, or reddish, brown-colored granular scales cover their long bodies.
• Crested geckos have a semi-prehensile tail which they use to assist in climbing. The tail can be dropped as a deterrent to predators. Unlike some other geckos, once they lose their tail, it will not grow back; however, this is not as harmful to the gecko as it is in other species. In fact, most adult Crested geckos in the wild lack tails.
• Crested geckos were believed to be extinct. In 1994 they were rediscovered and most of the studies and observations carried out following their rediscovery were on captive bred individuals.

EVERY SPECIES COUNT

Crested Geckos face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation, as well as the impacts of climate change. Once thought extinct, they are now a powerful reminder of how conservation efforts can help species recover, but they still rely on protected habitats and responsible care to thrive.

Curious to Learn More?
Reach out to our Education Team at education@emiratespark.ae we’re happy to share more wild facts!