The vast majority of geckos encountered by residents in Florida are non-native species. While these small lizards are common sights on buildings and walls across the state, they are largely immigrant populations that have successfully established themselves in the subtropical climate. Only one species is truly indigenous to the Florida ecosystem. This native species is often overshadowed by the numerous introduced geckos, leading most people to mistakenly assume all geckos are natural inhabitants of the state.
Florida’s Only Native Gecko
Florida’s sole native gecko is the Reef Gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus), a miniature lizard easily overlooked due to its small size. It is considered one of the smallest lizards in the United States, with adults measuring only about two to two and a quarter inches in total length. The Reef Gecko has a brown body mottled with small dark spots, and females may display three faint dark stripes on the head.
Unlike the common non-native geckos seen scaling walls, the Reef Gecko lacks the adhesive toe pads (lamellae) needed for vertical climbing on smooth surfaces. They are terrestrial and crepuscular, active primarily during dawn and dusk, and are found on the ground in leaf litter or low-lying vegetation. The native range of this species is highly specific, limited to the Florida Keys and the extreme southeastern mainland. Because of their small size and preference for hiding in natural ground cover, the average resident rarely encounters the native Reef Gecko.
The Abundant Non-Native Species
The geckos most frequently observed in Florida are non-native species. The most common is the Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus), a pale, semi-translucent lizard that reaches four to five inches long and is notable for its bumpy skin. This nocturnal species is commonly seen near outdoor lights, where its sticky toe pads allow it to easily snatch insects attracted to the light source.
Another established species is the Ashy Gecko (Sphaerodactylus elegans), generally restricted to the Florida Keys. Adults are light tan to rusty brown with tiny whitish-cream spots. The Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is also present, mainly in the southeastern part of the state. It is easily identified by its impressive size, growing up to 14 inches, and its striking blue-green coloration with rust-colored spots, and is known for its loud territorial call, which sounds like “tok-tok” or “to-kay.”
How Non-Native Geckos Arrived and Thrive
The presence of non-native gecko species in Florida is primarily a result of accidental importation and the pet trade. Many species, such as the Mediterranean House Gecko, arrived as stowaways in cargo ships, nursery plants, and other commercial goods traveling from tropical regions. The pet trade also contributes, as escaped or intentionally released exotic pets establish breeding populations in the wild.
Florida’s subtropical climate allows these lizards to flourish, similar to their native habitats across Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. The geckos benefit significantly from human development, often using houses and structures for shelter and warmth. Abundant insect prey around artificial lighting provides a concentrated food source. Furthermore, the lack of natural predators in urban environments allows their populations to expand rapidly.