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Description
House Gecko
Scientific Name: Hemidactylus spp.
Common Name: House Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult House Geckos typically reach 3.5–5 inches (9–13 cm) in total length, though size can vary slightly depending on species. They are slender, agile lizards with soft, translucent skin and long tails adapted for balance and quick movement.
Appearance: House Geckos are small, lightly built geckos with smooth skin and large lidless eyes that vary from gold to grey with vertical pupils. Colouration ranges from light beige or tan to soft grey or brown, often with subtle speckling or faint striping. Many individuals display mild translucence, particularly along the tail and limbs, and their tone can shift slightly depending on mood or lighting. The toes bear adhesive pads, allowing them to climb smooth vertical surfaces, including glass.
Distribution: The genus Hemidactylus is widespread across Africa, Asia, and tropical regions worldwide. Many species have become established in urban environments far beyond their native ranges, including North America and the Caribbean, where they are frequently found around buildings, lights, and gardens.
Habitat: In the wild, House Geckos inhabit both natural and urban environments. They are often found on walls, under eaves, or near lights where insects gather. They prefer warm, humid areas with easy access to shelter. In captivity, they thrive in simple enclosures that provide warmth, climbing surfaces, and moderate humidity.
Behaviour: House Geckos are nocturnal, fast-moving, and opportunistic. They are skilled climbers and often observed hunting insects near light sources after dusk. While typically not aggressive, they are highly territorial toward other males. They are best appreciated as active display animals rather than for handling.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide an enclosure measuring at least 12 inches × 12 inches × 18 inches (30 × 30 × 45 cm) for a single or pair. Include vertical climbing surfaces such as cork bark, branches, and artificial plants. A naturalistic setup is optional but helps encourage natural behaviour.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a warm-side temperature of 82–88°F (28–31°C) with a cooler area around 74–78°F (23–26°C). Nighttime temperatures can safely drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity between 60–80%, achieved through regular misting and adequate ventilation.
Lighting: Provide low to moderate UVB lighting (2–5%) on a 12-hour day/night cycle. While nocturnal, House Geckos benefit from low UVB exposure for calcium metabolism and overall health.
Diet: Feed a varied diet of small, gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, and fruit flies. Occasionally offer waxworms or soldier fly larvae as treats. Dust all prey items with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly. Juveniles should be fed daily; adults every 2–3 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: These geckos are hardy, active, and easy to maintain. They adapt well to captive life when provided stable heat and humidity. They are fast and best observed rather than handled. With consistent care, they can live 5–8 years in captivity.
Special Considerations: Avoid handling, as they are delicate and can drop their tails when stressed. Maintain a secure enclosure, as they are capable climbers and quick escape artists.
Taxonomy Note
The name “House Gecko” generally refers to members of the genus Hemidactylus, which includes over 150 species. Commonly encountered species in captivity and around human dwellings include the Mediterranean House Gecko (H. turcicus), Common House Gecko (H. frenatus), and Tropical House Gecko (H. mabouia). Because these species are visually similar and often mixed in trade, individuals are typically sold under the collective name “House Gecko.”
Genetics Note
There are no recognized morphs of Hemidactylus species in the reptile trade. However, natural colour variation occurs within and between populations, ranging from pale sandy tones to darker browns and greys depending on region, lighting, and habitat. These differences are natural and not selectively bred traits.