STANDING'S DAY GECKO
Phelsuma standingi
DESCRIPTION
Standing's Day Gecko (Phelsuma standingi) is a small, vibrant lizard known for its striking green coloration and distinctive red spots. This species exhibits a diurnal lifestyle, being most active during the day, and is often seen basking on tree trunks and leaves. It primarily inhabits forested areas, where it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as both a predator and prey.
FUN FACTS
- Standing's Day Gecko is known for its ability to climb smooth surfaces thanks to its specialized toe pads, which allow it to adhere to various substrates
- Additionally, these geckos have a unique vocalization that they use to communicate with each other, especially during the breeding season
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
Average Length10-15 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This gecko prefers humid, tropical forest environments, often found in trees and shrubs where it can easily access its food sources. It thrives in areas with plenty of foliage for cover and hunting.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Endemic to Madagascar, specifically found in the eastern rainforests of the island.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Madagascar
- Diet
- Standing's Day Gecko primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, utilizing its keen eyesight to hunt during daylight hours.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- small insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
10-15 cm
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with red or orange spots
- 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
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. Additionally, invasive species may compete for resources.
- Predators
- birds, snakes, and larger reptiles
- Defense Mechanisms
- Standing's Day Gecko can drop its tail to escape predators, a common defense mechanism among lizards.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon