Crested geckos are fascinating little creatures with unique behaviors that can sometimes leave you wondering what’s going on in their world.
Crested geckos may burrow to increase humidity, seek safety, or prepare to lay eggs. It can also indicate stress or discomfort from low humidity. Ensure proper habitat conditions for a healthy gecko.
In this article, we’ll explore why your crested gecko may be digging and how you can provide the best care for them.
Natural Instincts and Environmental Enrichment
Crested geckos, like many reptiles, are driven by natural instincts to seek shelter and safety. In the wild, they may burrow into the ground to hide from predators, regulate their temperature, or find moisture. In captivity, this behavior can be a way for them to express their natural instincts and enrich their environment. By providing substrates such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or other moisture-retaining materials, you can create an environment that encourages natural behaviors.
Allowing your gecko to burrow can reduce stress, promote mental health, and improve their overall well-being. The substrate should be deep enough to allow them to burrow comfortably, and you should regularly check the humidity and temperature levels to ensure they meet the needs of your gecko.
Breeding Behavior
One of the most common reasons for a crested gecko to burrow is related to breeding. Female geckos, particularly when gravid (pregnant with eggs), may seek out a safe, secluded place to dig a nest. During the breeding season, this behavior becomes more pronounced as the gecko prepares to lay eggs. If you notice that your crested gecko is burrowing more often, especially in the presence of a mate or during the breeding season, it’s likely an indication of egg-laying behavior.
To accommodate this, ensure that your gecko’s enclosure has a substrate that is deep enough for digging, such as coconut coir or a mix of sand and soil. This will give her a place to lay eggs safely. Providing a secure and stress-free environment is essential for egg-laying geckos, so be sure to minimize handling during this time.
Temperature Regulation
Crested geckos are highly sensitive to temperature changes, and they prefer a warm, humid environment. The ideal temperature range for a crested gecko is between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). If the temperature in their enclosure is too hot or too cold, they may attempt to regulate their body temperature by burrowing.
If the heat lamp or basking area is too intense, your gecko might dig to find a cooler spot within the enclosure. On the other hand, if the enclosure is too cold, they may burrow to seek warmth from the ground. Keeping the temperature within the proper range and using a thermostat or temperature probe can help prevent this behavior from being driven by temperature discomfort.
Humidity and Moisture Needs
Humidity is an essential factor in the health and comfort of a crested gecko. These geckos are tropical animals and thrive in environments with humidity levels ranging from 50% to 70%. If the humidity is too low in the enclosure, your gecko may burrow in search of more moisture, or they may instinctively seek out a damp spot.
To maintain the proper humidity, you can mist the enclosure once or twice a day, depending on the climate in your home. You can also place a humidity gauge inside the tank to monitor moisture levels and adjust misting accordingly. Adding a shallow water dish or a humidity box can also encourage your gecko to stay hydrated and feel more comfortable.
Stress or Illness
While burrowing is often harmless, it can also be a sign of stress or illness in some cases. If your gecko suddenly starts burrowing excessively or becomes more secretive, it could indicate that they are stressed due to environmental changes. A new enclosure, unfamiliar sounds, bright lights, or excessive handling may all contribute to stress.
Similarly, burrowing may also be an indication of a health problem. If your crested gecko is burrowing and exhibiting other signs like lethargy, lack of appetite, or difficulty shedding, it’s essential to consult with a reptile vet to rule out any health issues. Keeping track of your gecko’s behavior can help you spot signs of stress or illness early, ensuring that your pet gets the proper care it needs.
Shedding Process
Crested geckos shed their skin regularly, and during this process, they may dig or burrow. This behavior helps them remove the old skin, particularly if it’s stuck in certain areas. Shedding is a normal and healthy process, but it can be uncomfortable for your gecko.
If your gecko is burrowing more than usual during shedding, it’s likely a sign that they’re attempting to shed their skin or get rid of old skin. You can assist in this process by maintaining proper humidity levels, as dry air can cause skin to shed improperly. Providing a humid hide or misting the enclosure more frequently can make shedding easier for your gecko and help reduce the urge to burrow excessively.
Substrate Preferences
The substrate you choose for your crested gecko’s enclosure plays a significant role in their behavior, including whether they burrow. If the substrate is too hard, dry, or unsuitable for burrowing, your gecko may avoid digging altogether. Opt for soft, moisture-retaining substrates like coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or peat moss. These materials are ideal for crested geckos, as they can burrow comfortably and help maintain appropriate humidity levels.
Ensure the substrate is deep enough to allow for natural burrowing behavior but avoid overly deep bedding that could lead to the gecko becoming stuck. Keep the substrate clean and replace it regularly to avoid the growth of bacteria, mold, or pests.
Age and Developmental Stages
The age and developmental stage of your crested gecko can also influence its tendency to burrow. Younger geckos, especially juveniles, are more likely to burrow than adults. As they grow, they tend to spend more time in the upper branches of their enclosure, where they feel safer and more comfortable.
If you have a juvenile gecko, expect more frequent burrowing, especially if it feels the need for additional hiding spaces. Providing both ground and elevated areas in the enclosure can give your gecko the flexibility to express its natural behaviors as it matures.
Seasonal Behavior
While crested geckos do not hibernate, they may alter their behavior slightly during certain seasons. In the wild, these geckos may burrow or reduce their activity levels during cooler months. Similarly, captive crested geckos might burrow more during colder times of the year when the temperature drops or when they experience lower daylight hours.
This seasonal behavior is normal and does not typically indicate a problem. However, if you notice that your gecko is burrowing excessively and other changes in behavior accompany it, such as lethargy or a decrease in appetite, you should investigate further to rule out other factors like illness or improper enclosure conditions.
Providing Appropriate Hiding Spaces
Whether or not your crested gecko is burrowing, it’s important to provide adequate hiding spots in the enclosure. Even if they don’t dig, having places to hide can reduce stress and mimic their natural environment. Use cork bark, hollow logs, or dense foliage to create safe, secluded areas for your gecko to retreat to when it feels threatened or wants to rest.
Having multiple hiding spots throughout the enclosure will allow your gecko to choose a secure place to retreat to, promoting a sense of security and reducing stress. The key is to make sure your gecko feels safe and comfortable at all times, whether it’s on the ground or in the branches.
FAQs
What does it mean if my crested gecko is burrowing?
Burrowing is a natural behavior. It may seek shelter, temperature regulation, or moisture. Make sure its environment is comfortable and allows for burrowing.
Why is my crested gecko hiding in the ground?
Hiding in the ground might indicate stress, seeking safety, or preparing to lay eggs. Ensure proper humidity, temperature, and a calm, safe environment.
Why has my crested gecko buried himself?
Your gecko may be burrowing to feel secure or regulate temperature. It can also be related to breeding or shedding. Check the environment’s conditions.
How do you know if a crested gecko is stressed?
Signs of stress include hiding, loss of appetite, unusual shedding, or erratic movement. Make sure the habitat is stable, with proper lighting, temperature, and humidity.
Why is my gecko digging holes?
Digging could be a natural instinct for burrowing, seeking moisture, or laying eggs. Ensure enough substrate depth and humidity for a comfortable environment.
How do I know if my crested gecko is unhealthy?
Unhealthy geckos may show signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal shedding, or weight loss. Regularly monitor its activity and consult a vet if needed.
Is it normal for my crested gecko to be on the ground?
It’s normal for a gecko to be on the ground, especially when seeking moisture, hiding, or resting. Ensure they have both ground and climbing spaces.
Do crested geckos like to be stroked?
Crested geckos don’t generally enjoy being stroked or handled too much. They may tolerate gentle contact but prefer to be left alone in a secure environment.
How do I make sure my crested gecko is happy?
Provide a comfortable, enriched environment with appropriate temperature, humidity, hiding spots, and climbing surfaces. Minimize stress and handle with care to keep your gecko content.
Do crested geckos prefer to live alone?
Yes, crested geckos are solitary animals. They typically do better alone to avoid stress and potential territorial conflicts, especially between males.
Conclusion
In conclusion, burrowing in crested geckos can be a natural behavior driven by humidity, temperature regulation, stress, or breeding. By providing a comfortable environment with proper humidity, temperature, and hiding spots, you can ensure your gecko’s well-being.