A fascinating species of gecko that is native to the Indian subcontinent. Specifically, it is found in the Jeypore area of Odisha, in eastern India. This gecko is part of the Cyrtodactylus genus, which is known for its diverse species, many of which are adapted to various habitats across Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The Jeypore ground gecko is a relatively small, terrestrial species, making it distinct from other geckos in the Cyrtodactylus genus, which are often arboreal (tree-dwelling).

One of the most remarkable features of the Jeypore ground gecko is its specialized adaptation to life on the ground. Unlike its tree-dwelling relatives, this gecko spends much of its time on the forest floor, where it hunts for insects, small invertebrates, and other prey. Its body is slightly more robust and flat compared to arboreal geckos, and its coloring typically consists of brown and tan shades, which help it blend into the forest floor and avoid predators. The patterns on its skin help it stay camouflaged among the leaf litter, rocks, and soil in its native habitat, where it often hides during the day and becomes more active at night to forage for food.

The Jeypore ground gecko is nocturnal, like many other geckos. At night, it ventures out to hunt, using its keen vision to spot prey. It is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. The gecko uses its agile and quick movements to catch prey, often darting across the ground or into hiding spots to avoid being spotted by predators. Its tail is often used for balance, especially when making quick movements through dense underbrush or rocky terrain.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

India

EN

2019

Andhra Pradesh, Orissa