Crested geckos are small lizards from New Caledonia that became popular pets for their calm temperament and distinctive crested appearance. Unlike many reptiles they can vocalise, and males produce chirping calls when courting a female, especially at night when they are most active. Keeper videos sharing these unusual pet sounds spread across YouTube, TikTok and reptile forums, where the clip is now reused as a novelty animal sound, a reaction for lizard clips and a shorthand for any funny squeaking pet moment online today.