Mediterranean House Gecko

What is a Mediterranean House Gecko

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The Mediterranean House Gecko (also known as the common house gecko) is a small, nocturnal gecko native to the Mediterranean that has spread to many parts of the world, including Florida.

 

This gecko is nocturnal (active from dusk to dawn) and insectivorous (feeds on insects).  It rarely exceeds 5.9 inches in length, has large, lidless eyes with elliptical pupils, and yellow or tan colored skin with black spots, often with stripes on the tail.  Its belly or underside is somewhat translucent.

Geckos can do what???

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Credit: Vladimir Dinets, University of Miami, Bugwood.org

Geckos have sticky toe pads, allowing them to climb walls, trees and other structures and cling to them while they wait for their prey.  At night, the Mediterranean House Gecko can be seen hanging around outside lights on buildings, often waiting to prey on moths, small roaches, and other insects that are attracted to the light.  During the day, they hide in cracks, crevices, and under tree bark.

 

Males make mouse-like squeaking sounds during fights and probably to claim their territory.  Males also make a series of clicking sounds to advertise their presence to females during the breeding season.

 

In Florida, this species is not considered invasive due to its habits and small size.  Geckos rarely threaten populations of native animals.

 

Gecko Trivia

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  • A gecko can cast off its tail in defense and regenerate a new one.
  • It takes about three weeks for the gecko's tail to grow back.
  • After its tail has been cast off, it will continue to move for several minutes giving the gecko time to escape.
  • Geckos are expert tree climbers.  They are equipped with claws and sticky toe pads to help them climb.
  • Geckos are natural pest and insect control around the house.  They eat cockroaches and a wide variety of other insects.
  • In Southeast Asia, geckos are thought to be harbingers of luck and good fortune!