Mediterranean Gecko - Introduced
Hemidactylus turcicus

Description: 4 - 5 in (10 - 13 cm). Unlike any native lizard, geckos have sticky toe pads, vertical pupils, and their large eyes lack eyelids. Indo-pacific geckos are generally light gray or almost white in color but may have some darker mottling. This species is most easily distinguished from the similar indo-pacific gecko by its bumpy or warty skin.

Range and Habitat: As its name implies, the Mediterranean gecko is an old-world species, most common in Southern Europe and Northern Africa. It has been introduced in many tropical areas worldwide, including many areas in the Southeastern United States. This species has been widely introduced in Florida but its distribution is patchier than that of the indo-pacific gecko. It has also been found in a few counties in Southern Georgia. In almost all areas, this species is associated with human development, and it is seldom found far from buildings with outdoor lights.

Habits: Introduced geckos are almost completely nocturnal. Their sticky toe pads allow them to climb walls and they are often observed perched on walls around outside lights, waiting to grab insects attracted to the light. By day, these lizards hide in cracks, crevices, and under tree bark.

Prey: Geckos eat a wide variety of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.

Reproduction: Female Mediterranean geckos lay several clutches of two eggs throughout the summer. Instances of communal nesting have been reported, with several females laying their eggs together under bark, in crevices, or in moist soil.

Abundance: The Mediterranean gecko is firmly established in Florida and is spreading northward. It is almost always associated with human development and is an abundant species in suburban and urban areas.

Notes: This species' adaptability has made it a very successful invader. It is unknown what impact the introduction of this and other species has and will have on native wildlife. Unlike most lizards, geckos are capable of vocalizing, often making squeaking or barking noises in territorial disputes or to deter a predator.

Vertical pupils characteristic of geckos