Visit Animals n More for Gecko gifts, facts and information.
Geckos are small to average sized lizards
with flattened bodies and short limbs belonging to the family Gekkonidae which are found in warm climates throughout the world. Geckos are known for their vocalizations, from chirping sounds in social interactions with other geckos to barks. There are at least 2,000 different species of geckos worldwide.The name gecko comes from the Indonesian/Javanese word gekok. This gecko's vocalizations sound like its name.
All geckos, excluding the Eublepharinae family, have no eyelids and instead have a transparent membrane called the spectacle, which they lick to clean. The American genus Coleonyx is an exception; it has eyelids. Gecko species that are active day and night have round pupils; nocturnal species have elliptical pupils.
Geckos have several defensive maneuvers, some will expel a foul-smelling material and feces onto their aggressors. Others will drop their tails in defense, a process called autotomy (self amputation). The tails are regenerated. Several species of geckos make their home inside human habitations. These species are welcome and become family pets because they feed on insects (pests).
Geckos come in a variety of colors and patterns. Some species can change color to blend in with their environment or with temperature differences. Some species are parthenogenic, the females do not need a male to reproduce. This improves the gecko's ability survive and to spread to new locations.
In addition to claws, many species have specialized tow pads that enable them to climb smooth and vertical surfaces. On the bottom of each toe pad are scales covered with a myriad of microscopic hairlike bristles. Minute suction cups on the tips of the bristles permit geckos to walk up walls and across ceilings.
The family Gekkonidae is divided into five subfamilies, containing numerous genera of gecko species. Many geckos are kept as pets and will eat various kinds of insects and sometimes fruit. Not all species of geckos change their sexes in different seasons. Geckos are found throughout the tropics.
Most geckos lay two eggs at a time; Sphaerodactylus and Gonatodes lay only single eggs. Geckos lay their eggs on the ground or in crevices and can attach them to walls and under leaves. When born the young shed their skin and then eat it.
The glass wall plaque geckos shown above are available in the Jeannie's Cottage Gift Shop.
