Photo Disclaimer
Description
Fan-Footed Gecko
Scientific Name: Ptyodactylus hasselquistii
Common Name: Fan-Footed Gecko, Egyptian Fan-Footed Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) in total length, with a slender, semi-flattened body adapted for climbing and large, fan-shaped toe pads that provide exceptional grip on stone and cliff faces.
Appearance: The Fan-Footed Gecko is a striking desert gecko with a sandy to pale grey base colour and faint mottling or speckling that varies by locality. Its flattened body, wide head, and expanded toes make it perfectly suited for vertical movement across rocky surfaces. The eyes are large and lidless with vertical pupils, while the tail is long and slightly compressed. The ventral surface is smooth and lighter in tone, providing subtle contrast. This combination of muted desert tones and graceful proportions gives the species a distinctive, understated beauty.
Distribution: Found throughout North Africa and the Middle East, including Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. It inhabits rocky desert regions and arid hillsides, often near cliffs and dry wadis.
Habitat: In the wild, Fan-Footed Geckos are specialized cliff and rock dwellers. They shelter in crevices and cracks during the day and emerge at dusk to hunt. In captivity, they thrive in tall, rocky enclosures that replicate their vertical habitat with textured surfaces for climbing and hiding.
Behaviour: These geckos are nocturnal, agile, and quick. They use their wide, fan-like toes to climb vertical and even inverted surfaces with ease. Males may display light vocalizations and tail movements as part of communication or courtship. While not ideal for frequent handling due to their delicate build, they are highly engaging display species known for their natural activity and climbing prowess.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide an enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) for an adult pair. Vertical space and secure climbing surfaces are essential—use textured rock backgrounds, stacked slate, cork bark, and ledges to replicate cliff faces. A thin layer of compacted sand-soil substrate can help stabilize décor and moderate humidity.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 80–88°F (27–31°C) with a basking area near 92°F (33°C). Allow nighttime temperatures to drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity moderate to low, between 30–50%, misting lightly in one corner to provide drinking water.
Lighting: Provide full-spectrum lighting with low to moderate UVB (2–5%). Bright daytime lighting supports activity and helps mimic the species’ natural diurnal light cycle, even though it is primarily nocturnal.
Diet: Offer a variety of small to medium insects, including crickets, roaches, and mealworms. Feed 3–4 times per week, dusting prey with calcium and vitamin supplements regularly.
Behaviour in Captivity: Fan-Footed Geckos are fast-moving and shy at first but grow more confident with consistent routines. They are best appreciated as display animals, showing their most natural behaviours in well-structured enclosures. Their climbing ability and unique vocalizations make them particularly engaging to observe.
Special Considerations: Avoid handling except when necessary, as their delicate tails can detach easily. Ensure all enclosure openings are tightly secured—these geckos are skilled escape artists and can scale smooth surfaces effortlessly.
Taxonomy Note
The Fan-Footed Gecko (Ptyodactylus hasselquistii) belongs to the family Phyllodactylidae, a group defined by expanded, fan-shaped toe pads. This species is closely related to Ptyodactylus guttatus (the Sinai Fan-Fingered Gecko) and other regional Ptyodactylus species across North Africa and the Middle East. It remains one of the most widespread and well-documented members of its genus, showing regional variation in colour and size but stable classification.
Genetics Note
There are currently no recognized morphs or selective genetic variants of the Fan-Footed Gecko (Ptyodactylus hasselquistii) in captivity. Subtle differences in colour and spotting reflect locality variation rather than defined morph genetics.