Why Do Crested Geckos Make Noise? A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners.

Crested geckos are small lizards that typically reach between 7 and 9 inches in length. They are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes a crest of skin that runs from their head to their tail. Crested geckos have large, lidless eyes that are particularly well adapted for nocturnal activity. They also have sticky toe pads that allow them to climb vertical surfaces, as well as a prehensile tail that can be used to grip onto branches and other objects.

Natural Habitat

Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia, a small group of islands in the South Pacific. In the wild, they are typically found in the rainforest, where they live in trees and other foliage. Because they are nocturnal, crested geckos are most active at night, when they hunt for insects and other small prey.

Why Do Crested Geckos Make Noise?

While many people assume that lizards are silent creatures, crested geckos are actually capable of producing a variety of vocalizations. There are several reasons why crested geckos make noise, including:

Reasons for Vocalizations

Communication: Like many animals, crested geckos use vocalizations to communicate with each other. They may produce sounds to establish territory, attract a mate, or signal distress.

Mating Behaviors: Male crested geckos are known to make a distinctive “barking” sound as part of their mating display. This sound is believed to attract females and signal their readiness to mate.

Distress: Crested geckos may also make noise when they are feeling threatened or distressed. This can include hissing, chirping, or even screaming sounds.

Types of Vocalizations

Crested geckos produce a variety of sounds, each with its own unique meaning. Some of the most common types of vocalizations include:

Barking: This sound is typically produced by male geckos during the breeding season. It is a deep, throaty sound that is often accompanied by head bobbing and other physical displays.

Chirping: Chirping is a common vocalization produced by both male and female crested geckos. It is a high-pitched sound that is often used to signal distress or warn off potential predators.

Hissing: Hissing is another vocalization that can signal distress or aggression. It is a low, rumbling sound that is often accompanied by other defensive behaviors, such as puffing up the body or opening the mouth.

Screaming: Finally, some crested geckos are capable of producing a loud, piercing scream when they are experiencing extreme distress. This sound is often described as sounding like a human baby crying.

Interpreting Crested Gecko Vocalizations

As a pet owner, it’s important to be able to interpret your crested gecko’s vocalizations in order to provide the best possible care. Here are some common reasons why crested geckos make noise and what these sounds might mean:

Signs of Distress

If your crested gecko is hissing, chirping, or screaming, it may be a sign that they are feeling distressed. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in their environment, illness, or injury. If you notice your crested gecko making these sounds, it’s important to try to identify the cause of their distress and take steps to remedy the situation.

Mating Behaviors

Male crested geckos may bark when they are trying to attract a mate. This is a normal behavior during the breeding season and is not cause for concern. However, if your male crested gecko is barking excessively or showing other signs of aggression, it may be necessary to separate him from any female geckos in the enclosure.

Territorial Behaviors

Finally, crested geckos may make noise when they are establishing territory or defending their space. This can include hissing, chirping, or other vocalizations, as well as physical displays like puffing up the body or opening the mouth. If you notice your crested gecko displaying these behaviors, it’s important to ensure that they have enough space and resources in their enclosure to feel secure.

Common Misconceptions About Crested Gecko Vocalizations

Despite their vocal abilities, there are several common misconceptions about crested gecko vocalizations that are important to address.

Noise Level

While crested geckos are capable of making noise, their vocalizations are generally not loud enough to be heard from a distance. In fact, many people are surprised to learn that their gecko has been making noise at all!

Frequency of Vocalizations

While crested geckos are capable of making noise, they do not typically do so on a regular basis. In fact, it’s not uncommon for pet owners to have their gecko for months or even years without ever hearing them make a sound. This is because crested geckos are generally very quiet creatures that only vocalize when necessary.

How to Reduce Crested Gecko Vocalizations

While crested gecko vocalizations are a normal part of their behavior, there are some steps you can take to reduce the amount of noise they make.

Environmental Factors

One of the most important factors in reducing crested gecko vocalizations is providing a comfortable and secure environment. This means ensuring that their enclosure is large enough, has plenty of hiding places, and is kept at the appropriate temperature and humidity levels.

Handling Techniques

Finally, handling your crested gecko with care and respect can also help to reduce the amount of noise they make. If your gecko feels safe and secure in your presence, they are less likely to vocalize in distress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crested geckos are fascinating pets that are capable of making a variety of vocalizations. Understanding why crested geckos make noise, the different types of vocalizations they produce, and how to interpret these sounds can help you provide the best possible care for your pet. By creating a comfortable and secure environment and handling your gecko with care, you can help to reduce the amount of noise they make and enjoy a peaceful coexistence with your crested gecko.

ThePetFaq Team