Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a reptile pet but can’t decide between a bearded dragon or crested gecko? Or are you simply curious about these fascinating creatures and want to learn more about them? Either way, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll compare and contrast these two popular reptile pets so you can make an informed decision on which one to bring home.

Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are friendly, docile, and relatively easy to care for, which makes them a great choice for beginner reptile enthusiasts. They are native to Australia and can grow up to 2 feet in length, with a lifespan of 10-15 years. Bearded dragons get their name from the spiny projections under their chin, which they can puff out to make themselves look larger and more intimidating.

Housing

Bearded dragons require a spacious enclosure to thrive, with a minimum size of 55 gallons for one adult. The enclosure should have a basking area with a heat lamp or ceramic heater, a UVB light for vitamin D synthesis and overall health, and a cool area for thermoregulation. The substrate can be a variety of materials, including reptile carpet, newspaper, or ceramic tiles. Bearded dragons enjoy climbing and basking, so provide plenty of rocks, branches, and platforms in the enclosure.

Diet

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both animal and plant matter. Their diet should consist of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches, as well as vegetables and fruits. Provide fresh water in a shallow dish and mist the enclosure with water regularly to maintain humidity.

Temperament

Bearded dragons are known for their docile and friendly temperament, which makes them great pets for families with children. They can be easily tamed and enjoy being handled, although be gentle and avoid grabbing them by the tail or limbs. Bearded dragons can also be trained to recognize their owners and come when called.

Crested Gecko

Crested geckos are a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts who want a smaller, low-maintenance pet. They are native to New Caledonia and can grow up to 10 inches in length, with a lifespan of 15-20 years. Crested geckos get their name from the fringed crest of skin above their eyes that resembles eyelashes.

Housing

Crested geckos can be housed in a smaller enclosure than bearded dragons, with a minimum size of 20 gallons for one adult. The enclosure should have a climbing area with branches and plants, a hide box, and a moist substrate such as coconut fiber or sphagnum moss. Crested geckos don’t require UVB lighting or a heat lamp, but the enclosure should be kept at a temperature of 72-80°F with a lower temperature at night.

Diet

Crested geckos are insectivores, which means they eat only insects. Their diet should consist of gut-loaded insects such as crickets or dubia roaches, as well as commercial crested gecko food. Provide fresh water in a shallow dish and mist the enclosure with water daily to maintain humidity.

Temperament

Crested geckos are generally docile and tolerate handling well, although they are also known for their occasional bursts of speed and agility. They may jump or dislodge their tails if they feel threatened, so be gentle and avoid sudden movements around them.

Conclusion

Both bearded dragons and crested geckos make great reptile pets, but their care requirements and personalities differ significantly. Bearded dragons are larger, more sociable, and require a more complex setup, while crested geckos are smaller, more low-maintenance, and can be housed in a simpler setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your lifestyle, preference, and commitment. Whichever one you choose, make sure to do your research and provide the best possible care for your scaly friend!