What Are Geckos' Physical Characteristics?

A gecko is a small to medium-sized lizard with at least 68 species and sub-species. While each individual species exhibits different characteristics, there are traits common among most species.

  1. Size

    • The smallest gecko is less than 1 inch long. The largest reaches up to 14 inches long.

    Appearance

    • Geckos come in a variety of colors, stripes and patterns. Nocturnal geckos tend to have less color, while geckos that are active during the day are brighter.

    Eyes

    • Most geckos have eyes that are large for their body size. Since they have no eyelids, their eyes are constantly open, though they are protected by see-through scales.

    Feet

    • Geckos can zoom across ceilings or even climb up glass walls due to thousands of microscopic hooks on each toe. These hooks find purchase on the smallest of irregularities on surfaces.

    Types

    • Some species of gecko change skin color to blend better with the background. Others can drop their tail if danger threatens and grow it back later.