Last updated: February 23, 2026

When I first started searching for a crested gecko online, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, conflicting advice, and uncertainty about whether buying a live reptile through the mail was even safe. An online crested gecko store offers reptile enthusiasts access to a wider variety of morphs, healthier captive-bred specimens, and expert breeder support that local pet stores simply can’t match. After years of working with crested geckos and connecting with top breeders, I’ve learned that choosing the right online retailer makes all the difference between a thriving pet and a frustrating experience.

Key Takeaways

• Online crested gecko stores provide access to specialized morphs and healthier captive-bred specimens than most local pet shops
• Reputable online retailers offer live arrival guarantees, health certifications, and ongoing breeder support
• Prices range from $50 for basic morphs to $500+ for rare designer patterns like harlequin and tricolor
• Shipping is safe when done properly with insulated packaging, temperature monitoring, and overnight delivery
• Look for breeders who provide detailed lineage information, feeding records, and post-purchase care guidance
• CBReptile.com stands out as one of the best crested gecko breeders in the USA with extensive morph selection
• Proper habitat setup (vertical terrarium, plants, temperature control) should be ready before your gecko arrives

Quick Answer

An online crested gecko store is a specialized reptile retailer that ships captive-bred crested geckos directly to customers with live arrival guarantees and health certifications. These stores offer advantages over local pet shops including wider morph selection, healthier specimens from dedicated breeders, detailed genetic information, and expert care support. Reputable online stores use overnight shipping with temperature-controlled packaging to ensure safe delivery.

What Is an Online Crested Gecko Store and How Does It Work?

An online crested gecko store is a specialized reptile business that breeds or sources crested geckos and ships them directly to customers across the country. Unlike general pet stores, these retailers focus specifically on reptiles and often specialize in particular species like crested geckos, offering dozens of color morphs and pattern variations.

The process works through a straightforward online purchasing system. You browse available geckos (typically organized by morph, age, and sex), select your preferred specimen, and complete checkout with shipping information. Most reputable stores require you to be present for delivery and won’t ship to areas experiencing temperature extremes that could harm the gecko during transit.

Key components of online crested gecko stores include:

• Live inventory systems showing currently available geckos with photos and detailed descriptions
• Breeder information including lineage, genetics, and feeding history for each gecko
• Shipping protocols using insulated boxes, heat or cold packs, and overnight delivery services
• Health guarantees covering live arrival and initial health assessment periods
• Customer support providing care guidance before and after purchase

The best online reptile store operations maintain their own breeding facilities rather than reselling geckos from unknown sources. This ensures better health, accurate genetic information, and geckos that are already acclimated to captive conditions.

Common mistake to avoid: Don’t assume all online gecko sellers are equally reputable. Some websites simply resell imported or wild-caught specimens without proper quarantine or health screening. Always verify that the store breeds their own geckos or works directly with established breeders.

Why Choose an Online Crested Gecko Store Over Local Pet Shops?

Online crested gecko stores offer significant advantages over local pet shops for serious reptile enthusiasts. The primary benefit is access to specialized morphs and healthier captive-bred specimens from dedicated breeders who focus exclusively on crested gecko genetics and care.

Local pet stores typically stock only basic crested gecko morphs (usually standard browns or simple patterns) because they cater to general pet owners rather than reptile specialists. In contrast, online stores like CBReptile.com offer extensive selections including harlequin crested geckos, flame crested geckos, dalmatian patterns, and rare bicolor and tricolor variations.

Advantages of online crested gecko stores:

• Morph variety – Access to 20+ pattern and color variations versus 2-3 at local shops
• Health quality – Captive-bred specimens with documented lineage and feeding records
• Expert knowledge – Direct communication with experienced crested gecko breeders rather than general pet store staff
• Age options – Choose from hatchlings, well-started babies, juveniles, or young adults based on your experience level
• Genetic information – Detailed records of parents, siblings, and potential offspring outcomes
• Ongoing support – Access to breeder expertise for diet, habitat, and health questions

Disadvantages to consider:

• Shipping stress – Geckos experience transport stress (though reputable sellers minimize this)
• No in-person inspection – You rely on photos and descriptions rather than seeing the gecko first
• Shipping costs – Overnight delivery typically adds $40-75 to the purchase price
• Weather restrictions – Shipping may be delayed during extreme temperatures

Choose an online store if you want specific morphs, better genetic quality, or access to expert breeder knowledge. Stick with local options if you’re buying your first gecko and want hands-on selection, or if you live in an area with established reptile specialty stores (not general pet chains).

I’ve found that the health difference alone justifies buying online. Pet store geckos often come from mass breeding operations with unknown genetics and minimal individual care. Online breeders typically handle each gecko regularly, track feeding responses, and can tell you specific details about that individual’s personality and habits.

What Crested Gecko Morphs Are Available at Online Stores?

Online crested gecko stores offer an extensive range of morphs that showcase different color patterns, structure traits, and genetic combinations. The main morph categories include harlequin, flame, dalmatian, tiger, pinstripe, and various designer combinations that blend multiple traits.

Harlequin crested geckos feature cream or white patches mixed with darker colors, creating a distinct two-tone appearance. The pattern typically covers the sides, legs, and tail, with the best examples showing high contrast and clean pattern separation. Harlequin crested geckos for sale range from $150-400 depending on pattern quality and color intensity.

Flame morphs display a dorsal stripe running from head to tail, often with lateral pattern that doesn’t extend fully down the sides. The flame pattern can appear in various colors including red, orange, yellow, and cream. Flame crested geckos for sale typically cost $100-300 based on color vibrancy and pattern definition.

Dalmatian patterns feature spots scattered across the body, similar to the dog breed. These spots can appear on any base morph (harlequin dalmatian, flame dalmatian, etc.), adding visual interest and rarity. Dalmatian crested geckos for sale command premium prices, especially when combined with other desirable traits.

Tiger crested geckos show bold vertical stripes or bands across their bodies, creating a striking striped appearance. Tiger crested geckos for sale are popular among collectors for their dramatic patterning and range from $120-350.

Pinstripe morphs display raised scales along the dorsal and lateral crests, creating a three-dimensional texture. Pinstripe crested geckos for sale are valued for this structural trait, which can be combined with any color pattern.

Designer combinations blend multiple traits into unique specimens. Examples include bicolor crested geckos with two distinct colors, tricolor variations with three colors, and specialty morphs like creamsicle (orange and cream) or Halloween (orange and black).

Morph Comparison Table

Morph Type	Pattern Description	Price Range	Availability
Harlequin	Cream/white patches with dark colors	$150-400	Common
Flame	Dorsal stripe with limited lateral pattern	$100-300	Very Common
Dalmatian	Spots scattered across body	$120-450	Moderate
Tiger	Bold vertical stripes or bands	$120-350	Common
Pinstripe	Raised dorsal and lateral scales	$150-400	Common
Bicolor	Two distinct color zones	$180-500	Moderate
Tricolor	Three distinct color zones	$250-600+	Rare

When selecting a morph, consider that color intensity often increases as geckos mature. Hatchlings may show muted patterns that become more vibrant over 12-18 months. Reputable online stores provide photos of parent geckos so you can predict how your gecko’s colors will develop.

Choose harlequin or flame morphs if you want classic, well-established patterns at moderate prices. Choose dalmatian or tiger if you prefer unique patterning with more visual interest. Choose designer combinations if you’re a collector seeking rare genetics and don’t mind premium prices.

The designer crested geckos for sale online at CBReptile.com represent some of the finest examples available, with documented lineage and carefully selected breeding pairs that produce consistent, high-quality offspring.

How Do I Choose a Reputable Online Crested Gecko Store?

Choosing a reputable online crested gecko store requires evaluating several key factors including breeding practices, health guarantees, customer reviews, and transparency about gecko origins and care. The best stores breed their own geckos or work directly with established breeders rather than reselling from unknown sources.

Essential criteria for reputable online stores:

1. Breeding transparency – Clear information about whether geckos are captive-bred on-site or sourced from partner breeders
2. Health guarantees – Live arrival guarantee plus at least 7-day health guarantee after delivery
3. Detailed gecko information – Photos, age, sex, feeding history, and lineage for each available gecko
4. Communication responsiveness – Quick replies to questions about specific geckos or care requirements
5. Shipping expertise – Proper insulated packaging, temperature monitoring, and overnight delivery protocols
6. Care resources – Comprehensive guides for habitat setup, diet, and ongoing care
7. Customer reviews – Verifiable testimonials from previous buyers about gecko health and shipping experience

Red flags to avoid:

• Vague or missing information about gecko origins
• No health guarantees or very limited coverage (less than 24 hours)
• Stock photos instead of actual photos of available geckos
• Extremely low prices that seem too good to be true
• Poor website functionality or unprofessional presentation
• No contact information beyond a web form
• Shipping during temperature extremes without proper safeguards

CBReptile.com exemplifies best practices as one of the top crested gecko breeders in the USA, maintaining extensive breeding facilities and providing detailed information about each gecko’s lineage, feeding response, and individual characteristics. Their commitment to quality extends beyond the sale, with comprehensive care support and resources for new gecko owners.

I recommend starting by reviewing the store’s crested gecko morphs selection and reading their care guides. A store that invests in educational content typically cares more about long-term customer success than quick sales.

Decision rule: If a store can’t provide specific details about a gecko’s age, feeding history, and lineage, look elsewhere. Reputable breeders track this information carefully and use it to improve their breeding programs.

What Should I Expect When Buying from an Online Crested Gecko Store?

When buying from an online crested gecko store, expect a structured process that includes gecko selection, pre-shipping preparation, overnight delivery, and post-arrival support. The entire process typically takes 3-7 days from order to delivery, depending on weather conditions and your location.

Step-by-step buying process:

1. Browse available geckos – Review current inventory with photos, descriptions, and prices
2. Select your gecko – Choose based on morph, age, sex, and individual characteristics
3. Complete purchase – Provide shipping address and confirm you’ll be available for delivery
4. Weather check – Seller monitors forecast and schedules shipping for safe conditions
5. Gecko preparation – Breeder withholds food 24-48 hours before shipping to prevent digestive issues
6. Professional packaging – Gecko placed in ventilated cup with paper towel, inside insulated box with temperature regulation
7. Overnight shipping – Package shipped via FedEx or UPS with morning delivery
8. Delivery and inspection – You receive gecko, inspect for health, and follow acclimation instructions
9. Ongoing support – Breeder remains available for questions about care, feeding, and habitat

What’s included with your purchase:

• Live arrival guarantee (replacement or refund if gecko arrives deceased)
• Health guarantee (typically 7-14 days covering pre-existing conditions)
• Care sheet with feeding, habitat, and handling guidelines
• Feeding records showing what and how often the gecko has been eating
• Breeder contact information for follow-up questions

Costs to anticipate:

• Gecko price: $50-600+ depending on morph and quality
• Shipping: $40-75 for overnight delivery
• Heat or cold pack: Usually included in shipping cost
• Sales tax: Varies by state
• Habitat setup: $150-400 if you don’t already have proper enclosure

The best online stores won’t ship during temperature extremes (below 40°F or above 85°F in your area) because this creates serious health risks during transport. This means you might experience delays if you order during winter or summer temperature extremes.

Common mistake: Ordering a gecko before your habitat is fully set up and stabilized. Your terrarium should be running with proper temperature and humidity for at least 3-5 days before your gecko arrives so you can ensure conditions are stable.

After delivery, expect your gecko to be stressed from shipping. Most breeders recommend leaving the gecko undisturbed in its enclosure for 24-48 hours before attempting to handle it, and don’t be alarmed if it doesn’t eat for the first few days. This is normal acclimation behavior.

How Should I Prepare for My Online Crested Gecko Purchase?

Preparing for your online crested gecko purchase means having a complete habitat setup ready before your gecko arrives, understanding basic care requirements, and planning for the delivery day. Your terrarium should be fully assembled, stabilized, and running at proper parameters for at least 3-5 days before delivery.

Essential habitat components to prepare:

• Vertical terrarium – Minimum 18x18x24 inches for adults (12x12x18 for juveniles)
• Substrate – Paper towels for young geckos, coconut fiber or bioactive substrate for adults
• Climbing structures – Cork bark, bamboo, or sturdy branches arranged vertically
• Live plants – Pothos, snake plant, or bromeliads for humidity and hiding spots
• Water dish – Shallow dish for drinking (geckos also drink water droplets from misting)
• Temperature control – Ambient room temperature 72-78°F (no special heating usually needed)
• Humidity management – Misting system or hand mister to maintain 60-80% humidity
• Lighting – Low-wattage LED for day/night cycle (12 hours on, 12 hours off)

For detailed setup instructions, review our comprehensive crested gecko habitat guide and habitat setup resources.

Food and supplies to have ready:

• Powdered diet – Repashy or Pangea crested gecko diet (complete nutrition)
• Feeding ledges – Magnetic or suction cup ledges for food dishes
• Small feeding dishes – For powdered diet (replaced every 24-48 hours)
• Insects – Crickets or dubia roaches (optional supplement to powdered diet)
• Calcium powder – For dusting insects if you feed them
• Spray bottle – For misting enclosure 1-2 times daily

Learn more about proper nutrition in our crested gecko diet guide.

Pre-delivery checklist:

• Terrarium assembled and decorated
• Temperature stable at 72-78°F
• Humidity stable at 60-80%
• Plants and branches secured properly
• Water dish filled
• Powdered diet prepared
• Feeding ledge installed
• Misting schedule established
• Delivery day schedule cleared (you must be home)
• Thermometer and hygrometer installed and reading correctly

Temperature monitoring is critical. Use a reliable digital thermometer/hygrometer to track conditions. Crested geckos are sensitive to heat stress above 82°F, which can be fatal. For more details, see our crested gecko temperature guide.

Delivery day preparation:

• Clear your schedule to be home for delivery (morning delivery typically)
• Have your phone accessible in case the delivery driver calls
• Prepare a quiet, low-stress area for unboxing
• Have your camera ready to document the gecko’s condition upon arrival (required for health guarantee claims)
• Review the seller’s acclimation instructions

Age-appropriate considerations:

• Hatchlings (0-3 months) – Require smaller enclosures, more frequent feeding, and careful humidity monitoring
• Well-started babies (3-6 months) – Easier for beginners, established feeding response, more forgiving of minor care mistakes
• Juveniles (6-12 months) – Good size for handling, active growth phase, straightforward care
• Young adults (12+ months) – Fully established, easier to sex accurately, mature coloration visible

I recommend well-started babies for first-time crested gecko owners because they’ve passed the delicate hatchling stage but are still young enough to bond with you through regular handling.

What Are the Shipping and Delivery Practices for Online Gecko Stores?

Shipping and delivery practices for online gecko stores involve overnight express shipping with temperature-controlled packaging, live arrival guarantees, and strict weather monitoring to ensure safe transport. Reputable sellers only ship when temperatures at both origin and destination fall within safe ranges (typically 40-85°F).

Standard shipping protocol:

1. Weather monitoring – Seller checks 5-day forecast for both locations
2. Shipping hold – Delays shipment if temperatures are unsafe
3. Food withholding – Gecko not fed 24-48 hours before shipping to prevent regurgitation
4. Secure packaging – Gecko placed in ventilated deli cup with moist paper towel
5. Insulation – Cup placed in insulated shipping box (often Styrofoam-lined)
6. Temperature regulation – Heat pack (winter) or cold pack (summer) included as needed
7. Overnight delivery – FedEx or UPS overnight with morning delivery
8. Tracking information – Provided immediately when package ships
9. Delivery notification – Seller often contacts you to confirm delivery

Live arrival guarantees typically cover:

• Gecko arrives alive and moving
• No obvious injuries from shipping
• Refund or replacement if gecko is DOA (dead on arrival)

What live arrival guarantees DON’T cover:

• Gecko dies after you accept delivery (health guarantee may cover this separately)
• Delivery delays caused by weather or carrier issues beyond seller’s control
• Incorrect address provided by buyer
• Buyer not home to receive delivery

Health guarantees (separate from live arrival) typically cover:

• Pre-existing health conditions that become apparent within 7-14 days
• Parasites present before shipping
• Respiratory infections that were incubating during shipment

To claim either guarantee, you must typically:

• Photograph the gecko immediately upon opening the package
• Contact the seller within specified timeframe (often 1-2 hours for DOA, 24 hours for health issues)
• Provide clear photos showing the issue
• Follow seller’s instructions for veterinary examination if required

Shipping costs and options:

Most online crested gecko stores charge $40-75 for overnight shipping regardless of order size. Some offer:

• Free shipping on orders over certain amounts ($300-500)
• Discounted shipping for multiple geckos in one order
• Hold for pickup at FedEx/UPS facility (if you can’t be home during delivery hours)

Seasonal shipping restrictions:

• Summer – Many sellers pause shipping June-August in hot regions
• Winter – Shipping may be limited in areas with freezing temperatures
• Shoulder seasons – Spring and fall offer most reliable shipping conditions

Edge case to consider: If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you may need to use FedEx/UPS “Hold for Pickup” so you can collect your gecko from a climate-controlled facility rather than having it sit on a hot or cold porch.

I’ve received geckos shipped from across the country and found that proper packaging makes all the difference. The gecko should arrive in a small, ventilated container with just enough room to turn around but not enough to be thrown around during transport. The insulated box should feel appropriately warm or cool (not extreme either way) when you open it.

What Care Requirements Should I Know Before Buying Online?

Before buying a crested gecko online, you should understand the basic care requirements including habitat parameters, diet and nutrition, handling practices, and long-term commitment. Crested geckos are relatively low-maintenance compared to many reptiles, but they still require consistent daily care and proper environmental conditions.

Daily care requirements:

• Misting – Spray enclosure 1-2 times daily to maintain 60-80% humidity
• Food preparation – Mix fresh powdered diet every 24-48 hours
• Water check – Ensure water dish is clean and full
• Visual health check – Look for normal activity, clear eyes, healthy skin
• Waste removal – Spot-clean any feces or uneaten food

Weekly care tasks:

• Deep cleaning – Remove and replace substrate as needed
• Plant maintenance – Trim live plants, remove dead leaves
• Decoration cleaning – Wipe down branches and decorations
• Weight monitoring – Track weight for young geckos to ensure proper growth

Monthly care tasks:

• Full enclosure cleaning – Deep clean all surfaces and decorations
• Equipment check – Test thermometer, hygrometer, misting system
• Supply restocking – Replenish food, supplements, substrate

Diet and nutrition basics:

Crested geckos thrive on a complete powdered diet (Repashy, Pangea, or similar brands) that provides all necessary nutrients. Feed juveniles daily, adults every other day. Supplement with live insects (crickets, dubia roaches) 1-2 times per week for enrichment and additional protein.

Feeding schedule by age:

• Hatchlings – Daily feeding, small portions
• Juveniles – Daily feeding, moderate portions
• Adults – Every other day, full portions

For comprehensive nutrition information, see our detailed crested gecko diet guide.

Temperature and humidity parameters:

• Temperature range – 72-78°F (room temperature works for most homes)
• Nighttime temperature – Can drop to 65-70°F
• Humidity range – 60-80% (higher during shedding)
• Basking area – Not required (crested geckos don’t bask like other reptiles)

Common care mistakes to avoid:

1. Overheating – Temperatures above 82°F cause serious stress and can be fatal
2. Over-handling – Young geckos need time to acclimate before regular handling
3. Improper diet – Feeding only insects without powdered diet causes nutritional deficiencies
4. Inadequate humidity – Low humidity causes shedding problems and dehydration
5. Wrong enclosure size – Too small restricts activity, too large makes feeding difficult for young geckos
6. Cohabitation – Housing multiple geckos together often leads to stress, fighting, and injury

Long-term commitment considerations:

• Lifespan – 15-20 years with proper care
• Adult size – 6-10 inches total length (including tail)
• Ongoing costs – $20-40 monthly for food, substrate, supplies
• Veterinary care – Exotic vet visits $75-200 when needed
• Space requirements – Permanent 18x18x24 inch minimum enclosure

Handling and temperament:

Crested geckos are generally docile and tolerate handling well once acclimated. However, they can be skittish and may drop their tails if frightened (tails don’t regenerate in this species). Handle gently, support their body fully, and keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) until they’re comfortable.

Choose a crested gecko if:

• You want a low-maintenance reptile that doesn’t require special heating
• You prefer evening/night activity (crested geckos are nocturnal)
• You’re comfortable with a 15-20 year commitment
• You can maintain consistent humidity through daily misting

Consider a different reptile if:

• You want a reptile that’s active during the day
• You can’t maintain proper humidity levels
• You want a reptile you can handle extensively (they tolerate handling but don’t seek it out)
• You’re not prepared for a long-term commitment

For visual examples of healthy crested geckos and proper care setups, browse our crested gecko photo gallery.

How Do Online Crested Gecko Store Prices Compare?

Online crested gecko store prices vary significantly based on morph rarity, pattern quality, lineage, and age. Basic morphs start around $50-100, while rare designer combinations can exceed $500-600. Understanding pricing factors helps you make informed decisions and avoid overpaying for common traits marketed as rare.

Price ranges by morph category:

• Basic morphs (standard browns, simple patterns) – $50-100
• Common morphs (flame, basic harlequin) – $100-200
• Quality morphs (high-contrast harlequin, vibrant flame) – $150-300
• Premium morphs (dalmatian, tiger, pinstripe) – $120-400
• Designer morphs (bicolor, tricolor, rare combinations) – $250-600+

Factors that increase price:

1. Pattern quality – High contrast, clean pattern separation, vibrant colors
2. Genetic rarity – Uncommon trait combinations or proven breeding lines
3. Structure traits – Pinstripe, extreme harlequin, or other physical characteristics
4. Lineage – Offspring from proven breeding pairs or award-winning parents
5. Age and size – Well-started babies and juveniles often cost more than hatchlings
6. Sex – Females sometimes command premium prices from breeders

Factors that decrease price:

1. Common morphs – Widely available patterns like basic flame
2. Hatchlings – Younger geckos cost less but require more careful care
3. Unsexed geckos – Unknown sex (too young to determine accurately)
4. Minor pattern flaws – Breaks in pattern, less vibrant colors
5. Seasonal sales – End-of-season discounts or breeder sales

Price comparison across store types:

Store Type	Price Range	Advantages	Disadvantages
Specialty online breeders	$100-600+	Best quality, documented lineage, expert support	Higher prices
General online reptile stores	$75-400	Moderate prices, variety	Mixed quality, less specialized knowledge
Online classifieds/forums	$50-300	Lower prices, direct from hobbyists	No guarantees, variable quality
Local pet stores	$40-150	See before buying, no shipping	Limited selection, often poor quality
Reptile shows	$50-400	See before buying, negotiate prices	Seasonal availability, variable seller quality

What you get for different price points:

$50-100 range:
Basic morphs from general breeders or pet stores. Expect standard patterns, minimal lineage information, and basic health guarantees. Good for first-time owners who want to learn before investing in premium morphs.

$150-250 range:
Quality morphs from established breeders. Expect good pattern expression, documented feeding history, and comprehensive health guarantees. This is the sweet spot for most enthusiasts seeking attractive geckos without premium prices.

$300-600+ range:
Designer morphs, rare genetics, or offspring from proven breeding lines. Expect exceptional pattern quality, detailed lineage documentation, and ongoing breeder support. Best for serious collectors or those planning to breed.

Hidden costs to factor in:

• Shipping: $40-75 (sometimes free over certain order amounts)
• Habitat setup: $150-400 for complete terrarium, decorations, and equipment
• Initial supplies: $50-100 for food, supplements, misting equipment
• Ongoing monthly costs: $20-40 for food and supplies
• Veterinary care: $75-200 per visit when needed

Value assessment tips:

Look beyond just the morph name. Two “harlequin” geckos can vary dramatically in quality. Evaluate:

• Pattern contrast and clarity
• Color vibrancy
• Overall health and body condition
• Feeding response and behavior
• Breeder reputation and support

I’ve found that paying moderate prices ($150-300) for quality morphs from reputable breeders like CBReptile.com offers the best value. You get healthy, well-started geckos with good genetics and ongoing support without paying premium prices for ultra-rare morphs.

Decision rule: If you’re new to crested geckos, start with a well-started baby in the $100-200 range from a reputable breeder. Once you understand care requirements and what traits you value most, you can invest in premium morphs if desired.

What Questions Should I Ask Before Purchasing from an Online Store?

Before purchasing from an online crested gecko store, ask specific questions about the gecko’s history, health, genetics, and the seller’s policies. Reputable breeders welcome detailed questions and provide comprehensive answers, while sellers who avoid specifics or give vague responses should raise concerns.

Essential questions to ask:

About the specific gecko:

1. What is the exact age (hatch date)?
2. What is the current weight?
3. What has the feeding response been like (frequency, amount, any refusals)?
4. What specific diet has it been eating (brand, flavor)?
5. Has it shed successfully, and how often?
6. What is the temperament (calm, skittish, active)?
7. Can you provide photos of the parents or siblings?
8. Has it been handled regularly, or is it still acclimating?

About genetics and lineage:

1. Is this gecko captive-bred by you or sourced from another breeder?
2. Who are the parents, and do you have photos?
3. What traits are the parents known for producing?
4. Are there any known genetic issues in this line?
5. What percentage of offspring from these parents show this morph?

About health and care:

1. Has this gecko had any health issues?
2. When was the last successful shed?
3. What is your quarantine protocol for new geckos?
4. Do you provide a health certificate or veterinary documentation?
5. What are the specific terms of your health guarantee?

About shipping and guarantees:

1. What is your live arrival guarantee policy?
2. What is your health guarantee period and what does it cover?
3. How do you package geckos for shipping?
4. What temperature range do you ship in?
5. Will you hold shipment if weather is questionable?
6. What carrier do you use, and what time is typical delivery?
7. What do I need to do if the gecko arrives in poor condition?

About post-purchase support:

1. Do you provide ongoing care support after purchase?
2. Can I contact you with questions about feeding, shedding, or behavior?
3. Do you have care sheets or guides specific to this morph/age?
4. What should I expect during the first week after arrival?

Red flag responses to watch for:

• “I don’t know” to basic questions about age, feeding, or health
• Refusal to provide parent photos or lineage information
• Vague health guarantees (“we’ll work something out”)
• Pressure to buy quickly before asking questions
• Defensive or hostile responses to reasonable questions
• Claims that “all geckos are the same” or dismissing care specifics

Good responses indicate:

• Specific, detailed answers with dates and measurements
• Willingness to provide additional photos or videos
• Clear, written guarantee policies
• Enthusiasm about discussing the gecko’s traits and care
• Patience with multiple questions
• Proactive sharing of information you didn’t ask about

I always ask for a short video of the gecko moving and eating if possible. This shows activity level, body condition, and feeding response better than static photos. Reputable breeders are happy to provide this.

Sample question sequence:

“I’m interested in the harlequin gecko listed on your site. Can you tell me the exact hatch date, current weight, and what it’s been eating? Has it shed successfully since hatching? Also, could you share photos of the parents and explain what traits they typically produce? Finally, what are the specific terms of your health guarantee, and what should I expect during the first week after delivery?”

A quality breeder will respond with specific details and likely provide additional helpful information. If you get vague responses or feel rushed, that’s a sign to look elsewhere.

For additional context on what quality breeders provide, review the selection at geckos for sale online and reptiles for sale to see how reputable sellers present their animals and information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to buy a crested gecko online?

Yes, buying a crested gecko online is safe when you purchase from reputable breeders who use proper overnight shipping with temperature-controlled packaging and provide live arrival guarantees. Millions of reptiles are shipped successfully each year using established protocols that minimize stress and ensure safe delivery.

How much does shipping cost for an online crested gecko purchase?

Shipping typically costs $40-75 for overnight delivery via FedEx or UPS. Some sellers offer free shipping on orders over $300-500, and shipping multiple geckos in one order may reduce per-gecko shipping costs. Heat or cold packs are usually included in the shipping price.

What age crested gecko should I buy as a beginner?

Beginners should purchase well-started babies (3-6 months old) or juveniles (6-12 months old) rather than hatchlings. These ages have established feeding responses, are past the delicate hatchling stage, and are more forgiving of minor care mistakes while still being young enough to bond with you.

Can I return a crested gecko if I’m not satisfied?

Return policies vary by seller, but most online stores don’t accept returns for buyer’s remorse. However, reputable sellers offer live arrival guarantees (replacement or refund if gecko arrives deceased) and health guarantees (coverage for pre-existing conditions discovered within 7-14 days). Always review the specific return and guarantee policies before purchasing.

How long do crested geckos live?

Crested geckos typically live 15-20 years with proper care, making them a significant long-term commitment. Some individuals have lived beyond 20 years in optimal conditions. This lifespan is longer than many other popular pet reptiles.

What’s the difference between hatchlings, well-started babies, and juveniles?

Hatchlings are 0-3 months old, weigh 2-3 grams, and require careful monitoring and frequent feeding. Well-started babies are 3-6 months old, weigh 4-8 grams, and have established feeding patterns. Juveniles are 6-12 months old, weigh 8-15 grams, and are approaching adult size with stable care requirements.

Do crested geckos need special heating or lighting?

Crested geckos don’t require special heating if your home stays between 72-78°F. They don’t need UVB lighting but benefit from a simple LED light on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Avoid heat lamps or basking lights, as temperatures above 82°F can be fatal to crested geckos.

What do crested geckos eat?

Crested geckos eat commercial powdered diets (Repashy, Pangea) that provide complete nutrition when mixed with water. Supplement with live insects like crickets or dubia roaches 1-2 times weekly for enrichment. Juveniles eat daily, while adults eat every other day.

Can I house multiple crested geckos together?

Housing multiple crested geckos together is not recommended. Males will fight, and even females can show aggression over food and territory. Cohabitation causes stress, injuries, and feeding competition. Each gecko should have its own enclosure for best health and welfare.

What size terrarium does a crested gecko need?

Adult crested geckos need a minimum 18x18x24 inch vertical terrarium. Juveniles can start in 12x12x18 inch enclosures and be upgraded as they grow. Vertical space is more important than floor space because crested geckos are arboreal and spend most of their time climbing.

How can I tell if an online crested gecko store is reputable?

Reputable stores provide detailed information about each gecko (age, feeding history, lineage), offer live arrival and health guarantees, breed their own geckos or work with known breeders, respond quickly to questions, and have verifiable customer reviews. They also refuse to ship during temperature extremes and provide comprehensive care resources.

When is the best time of year to buy a crested gecko online?

Spring and fall offer the most reliable shipping conditions with moderate temperatures. Many breeders limit or pause shipping during summer (June-August) and winter (December-February) due to temperature extremes. Plan your purchase for March-May or September-November for best results.

Conclusion

Purchasing from an online crested gecko store opens access to healthier captive-bred specimens, specialized morphs, and expert breeder knowledge that local pet stores simply can’t match. The key to success is choosing reputable sellers like CBReptile.com who prioritize gecko health, provide comprehensive guarantees, and offer ongoing support after your purchase.

Before you buy, prepare a complete habitat with proper temperature (72-78°F), humidity (60-80%), vertical climbing space, and appropriate food supplies. Research the specific morph you want, understand the price ranges, and don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions about the gecko’s history, genetics, and care requirements.

Your next steps:

1. Set up your habitat – Get your terrarium running and stabilized at least 3-5 days before ordering
2. Research morphs – Browse designer crested geckos for sale online to see available options
3. Choose your age preference – Decide between hatchlings, well-started babies, juveniles, or young adults based on your experience level
4. Contact breeders – Ask specific questions about geckos you’re interested in
5. Review guarantees – Understand live arrival and health guarantee terms before purchasing
6. Plan for delivery – Clear your schedule and prepare for unboxing and acclimation
7. Join communities – Connect with other crested gecko owners for ongoing support and advice

The online crested gecko market in 2026 offers unprecedented access to quality animals and expert knowledge. Whether you’re seeking a basic flame morph for your first gecko or a premium harlequin crested gecko for your collection, reputable online stores provide the selection, health, and support that make reptile keeping rewarding.

Remember that buying a crested gecko is a 15-20 year commitment. Choose carefully, prepare thoroughly, and partner with breeders who will support you throughout your gecko’s life. The extra effort you invest in finding the right online reptile store and preparing properly pays dividends in years of enjoyment with a healthy, thriving crested gecko.

 

 




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References

[1] Crested Geckos For Sale – https://www.tortoisetown.com/product-category/crested-geckos-for-sale/
[3] guardiansofthegeckos – https://guardiansofthegeckos.com
[4] Crested Gecko Complete Terrarium Kit – https://www.thebiodude.com/products/crested-gecko-complete-terrarium-kit