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Description
Giant Day Gecko
Scientific Name: Phelsuma grandis
Common Name: Giant Day Gecko, Madagascar Giant Day Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 9–12 inches (23–30 cm) in total length, making them one of the largest day gecko species. They have a slender, muscular build and smooth, glossy skin.
Appearance: The Giant Day Gecko is an exceptionally vibrant arboreal lizard known for its brilliant green body accented with red or orange markings along the head and back. The underside is pale cream to yellow, and the eyes are large, round, and golden. Colour intensity can shift with mood, temperature, and lighting, making this species one of the most striking visual displays in any terrarium. Juveniles often show lighter, more muted tones that deepen as they mature.
Distribution: Native to the humid forests of northern Madagascar and nearby islands, where it inhabits tropical lowlands and coastal areas.
Habitat: In the wild, these geckos are found on tree trunks, bamboo stands, and building walls near forest edges. In captivity, they thrive in tall, well-planted enclosures with smooth vertical surfaces for climbing and basking.
Behaviour: Giant Day Geckos are diurnal (day-active), bold, and curious. They are fast-moving and highly visual, often seen basking or exploring during the day. While they can become comfortable with their keeper’s presence, they are best considered display animals, as their delicate skin can tear easily when handled. Males are territorial and should never be housed together.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a tall, vertical enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) for a single adult. Include smooth climbing surfaces like bamboo, cork bark, or glass, along with dense plant cover (live or artificial) for security. Naturalistic, bioactive setups are ideal for maintaining humidity and encouraging natural behaviour.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 78–86°F (25–30°C) with a basking area near 90°F (32°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Humidity should remain between 60–80%, with daily misting to provide drinking droplets and aid shedding.
Lighting: Provide full-spectrum lighting, including moderate to high UVB (5–10%). Bright lighting is essential for this diurnal species and helps maintain colouration, activity, and overall health.
Diet: Offer a variety of small insects such as crickets, roaches, and silkworms, supplemented with a commercial fruit-based diet (e.g., Pangea or Repashy) 2–3 times weekly. All insects should be dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements.
Behaviour in Captivity: Giant Day Geckos are active and engaging display animals. They become accustomed to routine and will often feed from tongs or lick food from smooth surfaces. Though not suited for direct handling, they display confidence and visible curiosity once settled.
Special Considerations: Avoid physical restraint or rough contact, as their skin is fragile and can tear easily. Ensure adequate humidity and ventilation balance to prevent dehydration or respiratory issues.
Taxonomy Note
The Giant Day Gecko (Phelsuma grandis) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is part of the Phelsuma genus, which includes over 40 species of diurnal geckos from Madagascar and surrounding islands. P. grandis is one of the largest and most recognizable, often serving as the flagship species for the group due to its size, intelligence, and intense coloration.
Genetics Note
The Giant Day Gecko exhibits natural colour variation across its range, with some regional forms showing deeper red or blue hues. There are currently no formally recognized morphs in captivity, though selective breeding has enhanced certain colour traits such as high-red or blue-flanked individuals. These variations are polygenic and not tied to specific genetic mutations.