Geckos & Their Habitat

Geckos are widely distributed lizards, especially prevalent in the tropics and subtropics of both the New World and Old World. A number of species are popular in captivity, and knowledge of their habitat helps pet owners fashion a good environment for their little charges.
    • Most tropical and subtropical regions of the world support one or more species of gecko.

    Taxonomy

    • There are more than 800 species of geckos worldwide. Most have cylindrical bodies, toes sporting adhesive pads, and large eyes with immobile lids, reflecting a nocturnal nature. The geckos of the subfamily Eubleparinae, including the leopard gecko of terrarium fame, which lack toe pads and have movable eyelids.

    Size

    • Geckos range in size from the 3/4-inch dwarf gecko of the Caribbean to the 14-inch tokay gecko of Southeast Asia.

    Range

    • Geckos are found throughout the warmer regions of the world, mainly the tropical and subtropical belt but extending into portions of the temperate zone. Common stowaways of human transport, some species have spread well outside of their traditional range.

    Basic Habitat

    • Most geckos are arboreal, or tree-dwellers. Others frequent cliffs and rock faces. The modified toes and general agility of many species are testament to their climbing, clinging niches in vertically inclined environments. Some, like the leopard and fat-tailed geckos, are more terrestrial, roaming hard, rocky deserts and grassland. Many tree geckos have adapted well to human infrastructure in native and non-native ranges.

    Natives

    • While a number of exotics now inhabit parts of the U.S., especially Florida, there are fascinating native species with their own habitat preferences. The Texas banded gecko of the Southwest haunts canyons and other rocky country; the Florida reef gecko of southeastern Florida and adjacent keys favors hardwood hammocks and pinelands.