Geckos that change colors have gained popularity among lizard lovers. They have a variety of patterns and shades that attract the eye. In most cases, the color change is characteristic of age. However, it became known about other factors to affect the coloration of some geckos. So, let’s find out why do crested geckos change color?
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What Shades Can a Crested Gecko Acquire?
Reptile owners, especially Crested, often ask questions about color if they notice a change in their skin. There are many reasons for this phenomenon. Of course, not all lizards have this feature, and not all have the same color or pattern. Each individual can receive different colors, black or white spots, depending on certain reasons. I have collected in the table the main shades that geckos can have, under the influence of some circumstances. And also, under a chart, you can consider the more detailed description.
| Color | Designation |
|---|---|
| Black | For safety, camouflage at night |
| Blue | A shedding probably |
| Grey | A shedding process |
| Red | Birth, stress, aggression, fear |
| White | During sleep, a shedding |
| Green | Cover-up among green plants |
| Camouflage | Good disguise |
- Black – Habitually, the darkening of your pet can be up to a variety of shades. There is nothing wrong with it if the body changes completely. However, if you see transformation only in the toes, tail, or even black spots on the crested gecko, then you should start to worry and seek help.
- Blue – As a rule, this color is rare. However, some reptiles can turn blue during shedding.
- Grey – You may often see your pet turn gray or pale. This feature happens when it sheds. So, don’t worry. However, help it to get rid of excess old skin in hard-to-reach places.
- Red – Usually, most geckos can be of this shade during exposure to various factors. In particular, stress, external adverse conditions can lead to this color.
- White – This shade is also rare. However, some reptiles may gain this color when they lose old skin until they get a new one.
- Green – Very often, the owners of green geckos notice that they become even brighter. This process happens during certain natural conditions, also possible during stress or camouflage between green plants.
- Camouflage – Some crested geckos have the advantage of changing the color into camouflage. So, they are perfectly hidden from danger on any surface.
Features of Shade Changing
How do geckos change color?
Geckos are special creatures. I am very fond of their features, especially when they changing the color of their skin. After all, it’s great for me to have an extraordinary home friend and follow its development. Therefore, geckos can change their natural shade in danger, dissatisfaction, malaise, nerves, stress, age, shedding, conditions, etc.
Do all lizards change colors?
According to research by Johns Hopkins University Press, not all geckos change their shades. However, some still have such features. This action can depend on various factors, including light or darkness, energies or sleep, temperature or mood, stress or joy, illness, hormonal status, nerves, and so on. Some lizards may only get spots on the skin.
What does it mean when your crested gecko is pale?
As reptiles grow, they are bound to molt their old current skin. During this procedure, lizards also exchange coloring. So, it may grow into pale, or grey and you can’t recognize your pet. However, this process does not last long. Of course, if you note that the skin doesn’t return to normal for more than a week, I advise you to consult a vet for advice. If you see remnants of old white skin, try to help pick it up. Otherwise, the lizard will eat it. I know from experience that young geckos shed more often (once a week). The seniors already change their skin once a month.
Reasons for Color Variation
- Age. With age, your lizard begins to alter coloration. Only when you reach adulthood, the shade will remain unchanged.
- Shedding. Reptiles change their skin for a new one. So, during this process, their skin will be paler. This procedure does not last long, and in a short time, the lizard will return to a bright natural and inherent shade.
- Environment. Very often, natural conditions lead to shade variation. High humidity, poor or too bright lighting, high temperature, nerves, or stress are signs that may affect this process. So, a light reptile can become an even flame crested gecko.
- Sickly State. Unfortunately, there are cases when this species of lizard alters the tail coloration to black. This sign is no longer pleasant and carefree. I advise you to see a veterinarian. He can confirm the death of this part. And to be honest, the crested reptile can’t recover its tail.
FAQs
What Is the Reason That My Crested Gecko Gets Darker?
As a rule, this type of reptile can be disguised according to the time of day. During the day, they can be lighter, and at night some lizards mask their shade of the dermis to darker. Don’t worry if they alter coloration all over the body. However, if you see an alteration only at the tail, especially black, you should consult a veterinarian. Such a process can be the cause of the disease.
Why Did My Gecko Become Grey?
The most common cause of discoloration to this shade may be shedding. Don’t worry about it. Your pet may turn in such coloring maximum for a few days. When the shedding period has elapsed, it will restore to its previous state. This process of replacing the old derma with fresh is natural and typical for most reptiles.
Why Is My Crested Gecko Fired Up During the Day?
As you know, almost all living beings are more active during the day than at night. Similarly, some reptiles can alter the coloration and become brighter during the more active way. During rest, they are calmer and paler. And in the day, they become active and can fire up. Howsoever, other factors may also affect the red color. The big reason can be stress, bullying, or even worse conditions.
Does Age Affect the Shade Alteration of My Gecko?
Yes, age is one of the main reasons for the change in the coloration of your pet. This feature is not common to all reptiles. And your lizard can’t alter coloring on its own compared to a chameleon. Nonetheless, certain factors, shedding, mood, living conditions, and in some ways, age, affect the substitute of skin tone. So, the crested gecko can change color with age.
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Finally
Various lizards have recently become popular pets. They are interesting little creatures that can replace shade depending on living conditions, age, mood, and so on. For example, camouflage geckos can hide from danger and feel safer. If you are a fan of reptiles, such as lizards, geckos are ideal for beginners. Of course, they need care and special conditions, terrarium, food, like all other species of animals. However, they won’t create maximum discomfort or difficulty and incomprehensibility in maintenance.
