POPULAR DAY GECKOS IN CAPTIVITY

Giant Madagascar Day Gecko

Phelsuma

The giant Madagascar day gecko is the largest of the Phelsuma species. Previously considered a subspecies of Phelsuma madagascariensis, grandis is now thought to only inhabit a very small distribution in North Madagascar. Like its relatives P. madagascariensis and P. kochi, this species inhabits a variety of environments from deciduous forests to banana plantations and rainforests. Because of their adaptability, there are now populations on Reunion and Mauritius as well as in Florida and Hawaii. These animals will begin life with lots of elaborate red patterns across their dorsum but eventually, grow into an almost uniform green lizard with some spots and facial markings. Males can quickly turn aggressive towards females and must be housed individually.

Gold dust day gecko

Phelsuma

Gold dust day geckos are widely distributed across North Madagascar where they are abundant in high-humidity regions. They are very adaptable and considered one of the hardiest of the Phelsuma species in captivity. This species is medium-sized, widely available in captivity and exhibits many of the desirable traits of a day gecko. They are well-natured lizards and in the wild and will often become ‘tame’ as they enter peoples homes to feed on leftover fruits and the associated insects. They typically eat more insects than other species and can be more territorial than their smaller counterparts. The term ‘gold dust’ refers to their golden dorsum patterns.

Peacock day gecko

Phelsuma

The peacock day gecko is a common species from the lowland coastal forests of East Madagascar. There are three distinct subspecies, and all possess large dark spots on both sides of their body, which look like the eyes of a peacock feather. Some subspecies have two spots, while others have four. Genetic work on the populations in the Ranomofana region suggest that P. quadriocellata may be a species complex and there could be many more species to identify in the future. They are commonly found in mid-altitude rainforests, which is uncommon for a Phelsuma species.

Lined day gecko

Phelsuma

The lined day gecko is a widespread and abundant species that occupies the tropical climates of Eastern Madagascar. As such, there are numerous subspecies that have been described. Those from drier regions are much drabber than those from rainforests. The term ‘lined’ refers to the dark line that runs down their flanks. All subspecies are reasonably small, rarely exceeding 15cm in length. They are very adaptable and therefore, make excellent pets. However, availability of this species (and subsequent subspecies) has diminished greatly in recent years.

Standing’s day gecko

Phelsuma standingi

Far less popular now than they were in the 1990s, this species from Southwest Madagascar has intricate patterns across its entire body. It is considered a vulnerable species, with unregulated collection and deforestation as the primary driving forces for its decline. Juveniles are born with strong banding that covers their green/blue base colouration. As the lizard ages, this banding breaks up into an almost reticulated pattern. Like many Phelsuma species, they are listed under CITES Annex II.

Blue-tailed day gecko

Phelsuma cepediana

P. cepediana is one of the more popular species from Mauritius. Their striking blue appearance makes it one of the most beautiful gecko species in the world and although they are challenging to breed in large numbers, dedicated hobbyists have been working with this gem for some time. Although they are commonly referred to as ‘blue-tailed’ day geckos, they can go through ontogenetical colour changes depending on their activity levels and mood. This species is also the sole seed disperser of Roussea simplex and therefore plays a pivotal role in the ecology of Mauritius.