How to Tell the Difference Between Boy & Girl Geckos

Geckos are aboriginal lizards that thrive in heat and live in tropical rainforests or near rocks and cliffs. Male and female geckos are similar in many ways -- they both possess fused eyelids and claws that allow them to freely hang from branches, for instance -- although there are several distinct differences in characteristics. Telling the difference between boy and girl geckos is possible looking at the upper and/or lower portion of their reptilian bodies.

Things You'll Need

  • Magnifying glass
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Observe the length and color of the gecko. Identify a male gecko by its naturally bold and vibrant tones and shades; female geckos are not as bright as their male counterparts. Measure a mature gecko for full body length. A male gecko may measure as long as 35 centimeters, while females typically reach 25 or 30 centimeters.

    • 2

      Examine the underbelly of the gecko. Look closely at the skin between the two back legs. Identifying miniature, semi-bulbous V-shaped pores at the center point on the skin means you are holding a male. Females lack V-shaped pores.

    • 3

      Scan the base of the tail on the underside. Notice two smooth, distinct bulges -- known as hemipenile bulges -- and you are holding a boy. Female tails are consistently scaly throughout and do not possess hemipenile bulges.