Best Pet Lizard for Me?

Question
Hello again Diane,
Well after doing some research and reading your advice i had all but decided on a dragon, but then i found another gecko I like and thought i'd ask about it first... (i also have a few about the beardie before I end this letter) - The crested gecko? would it be close to the leo when it comes to socializing, ease of care, etc.. anything you know would help (i dont really like leo's, the fat tail really doesnt work for me.. I cant explain why.. I like them, but i definitely like the dragon and crested more) also... the dragon... would it (like my iguana) need all the vitamins and supplements? with me being in college every expense matters... Also.. The local pet store (small shop near my house) has a few baby leo's.. i assume by getting a young one it would be more accepting to touch/handling/socializing... is this a correct assumption? and would it apply to the dragon/crested as well...?  Thanks for the help.
- Robert
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Followup To

Question -
Hey Diane,
I have always loved lizards (all reptiles actually but lizards are my favorite). I had an iguana when i was in middle/highschool but had to sell it when i went off to college.  Now im in college and would like to have another reptilian pet.  Heres the thing... It has to be economical for some one in an apartment (so no iguana) and on a budget... I looked at day geckos (because i dont really like the look of the nocturnal ones ive seen.. plus i want one that will be out when i am awake) but i've read they are not good to hold and i want to hold & socialize with my lizard... So my question is.. what do you reccomend?  I've looked at day geckos, bearded dragons (which im looking for something smaller if i can..), other geckos, skinks, etc... What do you think? Thank you very much, any advice is appreiciated.


Answer
Hi Robert,
I knew there was a reason I mentioned the crested to you!!
For ease in care, they are probably one of, if not  the easiest to care for.  One difference with them and some of the other geckos is that they require an enclosure with height.  Most recommend a 29 gallon size as that it has the dimensions required to keep a crested happy and healthy. Cresteds are actually more social than the leos in most cases and seem to like handling more also. A big difference in the cresteds and leos is that the crested have the "suction feet" that leos lack.  
On supplements, I recommend the Rep Cal brands... in both the calcium(no phosphorus) and the vitamins.  They are very inexpensive (under 10$ for each) and last an extremely LONG time! Depending on their age, supplements are used 1-7 times a week.  The crested require lower temperatures,(basically room temps of 72-82), they are about 7-8 inches long, their life span is approx. 20 yrs, they are nocturnal, thus do not require uvb,but do require 12-14 hrs of light daily and using a uvb light can be a good thing for this.  Its not really known at this point if they do benefit from the uvb, but some feel it does and I tend to agree with that as that unless something lives in a cave, they do at some time get even a small amount of uvb from the sun. Their diet is about 50-50 in insects and babyfood fruits. They do require a more humid environment, so misting is essential. A easy to read and understand care sheet can be found at:
http://www.reptilerooms.com/Sections+index-req-viewarticle-artid-94-page-1.html

As far as starting with a baby crested, leo, iguana, or bearded, nope...that isn't always true.  Some lizards will never tame and accept handling.  When they are older, it gives you a much better idea as to their attitude toward handling and socialization.
With costs associated with the bearded dragon and the crested gecko, it's almost apples to oranges... the crested gecko is by far the least expensive to set up for and keep.  Of course, with all reptiles, having regular vet check ups is vital to maintaining their good health!! Its recommended to have at least a fecal done yearly along with a well pet check up.

Hope this all helps you out!!  Let me know if you need any more info.  Its wonderful to see you doing all your research before you decide on the species that will enter your life!!