The Rediscovered “Eyelash” Lizard of New Caledonia

Deep in the tropical rainforest canopies of New Caledonia (a group of islands off the coast of Australia), a remarkable lizard lived undisturbed for centuries: the Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus).

Believed to be extinct for over a century, a expedition led by Robert Seipp rediscovered them in 1994 following a tropical storm!

👁️ The “Eyelash” Crest & Van der Waals Superpower

• Eyelash Crests: Soft skin crests run from above their eyes down to their shoulders, resembling long, luxurious eyelashes!
• Atomic Toe Pads: Crested geckos walk across smooth glass and vertical leaves using van der Waals atomic forces! Millions of microscopic spatulae hairs on their toe pads bond electronically to surfaces.

🍓 The Powdered Fruit Nectar Diet

Unlike most reptiles that require live insects, Crested Geckos in the wild eat ripe fallen fruit and flower nectar! In home sanctuaries, they thrive on complete powdered fruit diets mixed with water into a sweet smoothie.

🏡 Designing a Vertical Rainforest Sanctuary

• Vertical Height: Crested geckos are arboreal jumpers who need height (18x18x36 inches) filled with vines and climbing branches.
• Evening Misting: Mist the enclosure daily to maintain 70% to 80% humidity—they love licking water droplets off leaves!