DAY GECKO
Phelsuma spp.
DESCRIPTION
Day Gecko (Phelsuma spp.) is a vibrant and colorful lizard known for its striking green body and red or blue markings. These geckos are primarily arboreal, often found basking on tree trunks and leaves in their natural habitat. They are diurnal and exhibit active behavior, often seen foraging for food during the day, which includes a variety of insects and fruits.
FUN FACTS
- Day Geckos are known for their ability to climb smooth surfaces due to their specialized toe pads, which allow them to grip even the slickest of surfaces
- Additionally, they have a unique method of communication, using body language and color changes to signal to other geckos, especially during mating rituals
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
Average Weight10-50 g
Average Length15-30 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on environmental conditions.
- Habitat
- Day Geckos inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, often favoring areas with abundant vegetation. They are also found in urban environments where they can find suitable hiding spots and food sources.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Urban
- Native Range
- Day Geckos are native to Madagascar and the nearby Comoros Islands, with some species introduced to other regions.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Madagascar, Comoros
- Diet
- Day Geckos primarily consume insects and fruits, making them opportunistic feeders. They are known to enjoy nectar as well, which they obtain from flowers.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, fruits, nectar
- Social Structure
- solitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
10-50 g
Weight
15-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with red or blue spots, depending on the species.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are typically larger and more colorful than females.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on environmental conditions.
VU
Vulnerable
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Some species are common, while others are threatened due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and the pet trade. Invasive species also pose a risk to their populations.
- Predators
- birds, snakes, and larger reptiles are known predators of Day Geckos.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can drop their tails to escape predators, which can later regenerate.
- Compatible Animals
- other small reptiles, certain amphibians
- Found in Zoos
- Common