Tail loss (autotomy), crested gecko care
Crested geckos drop their tails as a predator-escape response. Unlike leopard geckos and many other species, a lost tail does not regrow. The animal is otherwise fine, in the wild, most adult crested geckos are tailless.
Level: beginner. Part of: Health.
- A dropped tail will bleed briefly, then clot on its own. No veterinary intervention is usually needed.
- Keep the enclosure clean for 3 to 5 days post-drop to avoid infection of the stump.
- Tail drops are triggered by stress: being grabbed, fighting another gecko, being startled, or sudden temperature change. Solo-house, handle gently, and minimize surprises.
- A tailless ("frogbutt") gecko is not worth less to a keeper, many hobbyists find them charming. Show breeders do pay a premium for intact tails.
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