Common Geckos

With more than 800 species known to man, the gecko is one of the most diverse lizard species in the world. Geckos are distinctive among other lizard species because of their method of vocal communication that includes loud chirping sounds and barks. Some species of gecko have become a popular choice for a pet and can be found in pet stores worldwide.

  1. Leopard Gecko

    • Leopard geckos are large lizards, with adults reaching up to 9 inches in length. Leopard geckos typically have yellow skin with brown spots, though young geckos of this species have a stripped pattern that will eventually fade away. Leopard geckos are native to the Middle East; however, this species of lizard is captive bred extensively in the United States. They are easy to care for and maintain, making them an ideal choice as a pet.

    Fat-Tailed Gecko

    • Fat-tailed geckos are approximately the same size and shape as the common leopard gecko, reaching approximately 8 to 9 inches in length when mature. Fat-tailed geckos are known for being shy toward their handlers, which generally makes them a better choice for frequent handling. The fat-tailed gecko is native to West Africa, but demand of the lizard in the United States has led to a number of breeders within the country providing captive bred geckos for sale in pet stores.

    Tokay Gecko

    • The Tokay gecko is one of the largest species of gecko reaching up to 12 inches in length. The Tokay is a pale gray lizard that has blue colored spots during the evening when it is dark and dark gray or red spots when it is in the light. The Tokay has become a popular choice of pet in the United States, more than likely to the dismay of the lizards themselves. Tokay geckos are well known among herpetologists for their poor temperament and inclination to bite. An additional downside to keeping a Tokay as a pet is they are nocturnal creatures, so they will rarely ever be seen during daylight hours.

    Crested Gecko

    • Crested geckos are a popular pet choice due to a number of factors. The crested gecko has spiky fringe that hangs over its eyes and down its back. They are docile lizards that are not opposed to being handled frequently by their owner. Crested geckos can be found in a variety of colors and they have the ability to darken or lighten their skin color as a form of camouflage. The crested gecko is one of the easiest lizard species to care for in captivity, making them an ideal choice for the novice reptile owner or young child with proper adult supervision.