The origin of the crested gecko
The Crested Gecko is often shortened to "Cre." The cre is a type of gecko native to the southern part of New Caledonia and its surrounding islands; its wild population declined due to the impact of invasive ants. Although once believed to be extinct, it was rediscovered in 1994, and subsequent artificial breeding using individuals exported for research has made it one of the most popular pet reptiles today.
The scientific name of the crested gecko, "Correlophus ciliatus," is derived from the Latin word meaning "reptile with eyelashes." It has eyebrow-shaped projections (crests) above its eyes, which often extend along its back down to the pelvis. Its eyes are covered with transparent scales, and although it cannot close its eyes due to the absence of eyelids, these projections droop slightly to partially cover them. For this reason, crested geckos frequently lick their eyes with their tongues to provide moisture and maintain cleanliness.