A small, nocturnal reptile that has become a common sight in urban and suburban areas within warm and humid regions worldwide. Originally hailing from the Mediterranean area, including parts of Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of the Middle East, this adaptable gecko has successfully established itself in many parts of the Americas, Southeast Asia, and other warm regions globally.
These geckos are known for their distinctive pale pink, tan, or whitish skin, which can change color to blend in with their surroundings. This coloration is particularly effective for a nocturnal lifestyle, allowing the gecko to remain inconspicuous during its active hours after dusk.
One of the most notable adaptations of the Mediterranean house gecko is its large, lidless eyes with vertical pupils, which provide excellent night vision. This is essential for spotting prey in the dark and avoiding nighttime predators. Their sticky toe pads are equipped with specialized scales called lamellae, which enable them to easily adhere to and climb various surfaces, including vertical walls and even glass ceilings.
Mediterranean house gecko feeds primarily on insects and other small invertebrates, which is beneficial in controlling pest populations. Its insectivorous habits and tolerance for human-altered habitats have facilitated its spread beyond its native range, often through accidental transport in cargo and shipments.
When threatened, Mediterranean house geckos can exhibit a fascinating defense mechanism. Their tails can detach when grabbed by a predator – a process known as autotomy – allowing the gecko to escape while the predator is distracted by the still-moving tail. Remarkably, the gecko can regenerate its tail over time, although the new one often differs in texture and coloration from the original.
These geckos are also among the few reptiles capable of producing sounds. They make chirping or clicking noises, serving various purposes, including social communication between individuals, territorial disputes, and warning signals to potential threats.
Distribution
Albania
Algeria
Bosnia And Herz.
Croatia
Cuba
Cyprus
Egypt
France
Greece
Israel
Italy
Lebanon
Libya
Malta
Mexico
Montenegro
Morocco
Panama
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Slovenia
Spain
Tunisia
Turkey
United StatesAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
