Gecko gecko
The tokay gecko is a large, nocturnal, and arboreal lizard native to Asia and some Pacific Islands. It is known for its striking blue-gray skin with red or orange spots, its strong bite, and the distinctive "tokay" call made by males. These geckos inhabit rainforests and have adapted to human habitations, often found on walls and ceilings.
Key Facts
- ›Reaches an average total length of 25-30 cm, with some specimens growing up to 40 cm.
- ›Possesses striking blue-gray skin adorned with red or orange spots, capable of color change for camouflage.
- ›Males are typically more brightly colored and slightly larger than females.
- ›Known for its aggressive and territorial nature, capable of inflicting a powerful bite.
- ›Feeds on insects and small vertebrates, with a varied diet depending on prey availability.
- ›Culturally significant in many East Asian countries, often associated with good luck and fertility.
Tokay Gecko
Northeastern India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, Western New Guinea, Established In Florida, Usa, Martinique, Islands of Belize, Possibly Hawaii
- Large Nocturnal Gecko, Cylindrical But Somewhat Flattened Body Shape.
- Reaches A Total Length of 25–30 cm On Average, Up To 40 cm.
- Eyes Possess Vertical Pupils.
- Skin Is Soft To the Touch, Generally Blue-Gray With Red Or Orange Spots and Speckles.
- Capable of Changing Skin Color To Blend With the Environment.
- Males Are More Brightly Colored and Slightly Larger Than Females.
- Possesses Strong Foot Pads For Climbing Vertical Surfaces.
- Robust Build With A Semiprehensile Tail, Large Head, and Muscular Jaws.
Insects, Small Vertebrates, Springtails, Mealworms, Cockroaches, Crickets, Grasshoppers, Locusts, Pink Mice, Roaches, Caterpillars, Spiders, Beetles
- Generally Aggressive and Territorial.
- Can Inflict A Strong Bite.
- Males Make A Loud Mating Call.
- When Threatened Or Alarmed, They "Bark" While Opening Their Mouth Defensively.
- Females Lay Eggs and Guard Them Until They Hatch.
- Pairs Form Temporary Family Groups and Care For Their Young During Breeding.
- Can Distinguish Mates and Offspring By Smell.
Poaching For Medicinal Trade, Belief of Hiv Cure, Indiscriminate Hunting, Illegal Wildlife Trade, Urbanization
About Gecko gecko
The Tokay Gecko
The tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) is a striking and robust species of gecko recognized for its considerable size and distinctive vocalizations. Native to the rainforests and human habitations of Asia and some Pacific Islands, it is a nocturnal and arboreal lizard that can reach lengths of up to 30-40 cm. Its appearance is notable for its blue-gray skin, often covered in red or orange spots, and its ability to alter its coloration for camouflage. Males tend to be more vibrantly colored and slightly larger than females.
Behavior and Characteristics
Tokay geckos are known for their aggressive and territorial nature, and they possess a powerful bite capable of piercing skin. Their common name derives from the onomatopoeic sound made by males, a loud call often described as "tokay" or "token." Beyond their vocalizations, they exhibit defensive "barking" when threatened. In breeding pairs, they form temporary family units, demonstrating parental care by guarding eggs and distinguishing their young by scent. Their diet consists of insects and small vertebrates, and they are well-adapted climbers due to specialized foot pads.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is found across a wide range in tropical Asia, including countries like India, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia, extending towards western New Guinea. They inhabit primary rainforests, dwelling on trees and cliffs, but have also successfully adapted to human environments, frequently being observed on walls and ceilings of rural dwellings in search of prey. The tokay gecko has also been introduced to some regions outside its native range, such as Florida in the United States.
Cultural Significance and Conservation
The tokay gecko holds cultural importance in many East Asian countries, often symbolizing good luck and fertility and being featured in folklore. It is sought after for traditional medicine, believed to have properties that nourish the kidneys and lungs, though these claims lack scientific substantiation. This demand has led to significant poaching, especially when mistaken beliefs about medicinal cures emerge, making the species increasingly threatened in certain areas. As a result, the tokay gecko is protected under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which regulates its international trade.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tokay gecko's distinctive call?
The tokay gecko's call is a loud croak, often described as sounding like "token," "gekk-gekk," or "tokay." This vocalization is made by males, particularly during breeding season, and can be preceded by a quick "cackling" sound.
Are tokay geckos aggressive?
Yes, tokay geckos are generally aggressive and territorial. They are known to inflict a strong bite, which can be particularly powerful in larger individuals, sometimes resulting in bleeding.
What do tokay geckos eat?
The tokay gecko's diet primarily consists of insects and small vertebrates. In captivity, they are often fed springtails, mealworms, cockroaches, crickets, grasshoppers, locusts, and pink mice.
Where do tokay geckos live?
These geckos are native to tropical Asia, ranging from northeastern India to eastern Indonesia, and are also found in Bangladesh. Their natural habitat includes rainforests, where they live on trees and cliffs, and they frequently adapt to rural human habitations.
How long do tokay geckos live?
When provided with good care, tokay geckos can live for a considerable time. Their lifespan in captivity can range from 15 to 20 years.
Are tokay geckos endangered?
The tokay gecko is becoming increasingly threatened, particularly in areas like the Philippines, due to indiscriminate hunting and poaching for medicinal trade and the pet industry. They are protected under Appendix II of CITES, regulating international trade.
Related Lizards
Gekko gecko
The tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) is a large, nocturnal gecko native to Asia and some Pacific Islands, known for its striking blue-gray skin with red or orange spots and its distinctive "tokay" call. It inhabits rainforests and often adapts to human dwellings, preying on insects and small vertebrates. Despite its beauty, it is known for its aggressive nature and strong bite, making it less suitable for novice pet keepers.
Gekko gekko
The tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) is a large, nocturnal gecko native to Asia and some Pacific Islands, known for its striking blue-gray skin with red or orange spots and a distinctive "tokay" call. It inhabits rainforests and frequently adapts to human dwellings, where it hunts insects and small vertebrates. Despite its impressive appearance, it is known for its aggressive nature and a powerful bite.
Tokay gecko
The Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) is a large, nocturnal, arboreal gecko native to Asia and some Pacific Islands, known for its striking blue-gray skin with red or orange spots and its loud, distinctive call. These territorial lizards inhabit rainforests and often adapt to human dwellings, where they hunt insects and small vertebrates. Despite their popularity in the pet trade, their aggressive nature and powerful bite make them unsuitable for inexperienced keepers.