Species Reccomendations

[Revasius]

Hi everyone,

I am looking for a new species of gecko to add to my collection, but I have had trouble locating a species that will work for me!

I am looking for a gecko or lizard that can be:

1. Handled (not every day, but often)
2. Kept without UVB
3. Fed primarily fruit and CGD, or any of the Repashy products (meat pie, etc.)
4. Found through a reputable breeder/seller at an affordable cost ($200 or less, under $150 is ideal.)

I am currently incredibly interested in the slender prehensile tail geckos, but I can't afford the white-collar varieties for over $300. There was a male I was interested in but he was purchased before I could get him.

I do like the eurydactylodes and bavaria, but I want a lizard that can be handled without risk of injury to the animal.

I am interested in leachies and chahouas, but can't afford the $800 price tag for those guys.

I am NOT interested in gargoyle geckos because I am looking for something different than crested geckos, and gargs seem really similar.

I am somewhat interested in Halmahera geckos, but the fact that they can't really be handled is a problem for me, considering they're still almost $100, and then the cost of shipping...

Any advice is appreciated!

(Note: I will not be purchasing an animal I am not equipped to take care of.)

 

[acpart]

Check out Jabberwock Reptile store in Winchester MA (unless you're really far away). Their prices are reasonable and they have a really nice looking emerald swift in the store now.

Aliza

 

[Revasius]

I did contact Jabberwock Reptiles, but unfortunately they don't have any C. sarasinorum. That is the species I am most interested in. Can anyone reccomend a reputable breeder of this species?

 

[Yoshi'smom]

I really think that gargoyles are underrated. They are a wonderful species to work with and from my experiences are different than cresties in many different ways. Yes, their care is the same but they are like little hand dragons. Still one of my favorites of the New Caledonian species.
I keep 5 different New Cal species and I've found that the ones with the price tag you're looking for is either a crested, gargoyle or E. Agricolae. The Agricolae are a great species to keep. My pair are out more often that other new cals so I enjoy watching them. They are also a smaller species. My adult pair cohab a 12x12x18 exoterra with no issues. Truly a fun species.
I keep leachies but yes, their price tag is far more significant. However, you can find a mixed locale baby for close to around $300 or so. I think they are totally worth the price though. I love all of my big wrinkles.
The next and last new cal species I'd like to keep is indeed a chewie. But again, I'm probably going to spend a fortune.
I'd really just suggest doing a bunch of research and see which you like best and can afford.

 

[Revasius]

Thanks Kelly! I do like gargs aesthetically, but I want to venture out of crestie breeding because the market is already so swamped and I've found the same thing with gargoyles. I'm planning on saving my money and going to an expo in a few months, hopefully I'll be able to find something nice (and affordable!)