The common house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) is a small lizard found worldwide in tropical and subtropical human dwellings. Originally from Southeast Asia, it has spread globally, often via cargo, earning its name from its presence in homes.
Identifying House Geckos
House geckos measure between 7.5 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches) in total length, with males slightly larger than females. Their coloration varies from pale yellow to grayish-white or light brown, sometimes featuring a greenish iridescence or darker mottled patches. They possess small, granular scales, giving them a velvety texture, while their undersides are creamy-white and often translucent.
A distinctive feature is their large, bulging eyes, which lack eyelids and have vertical pupils adapted for low-light conditions. Their specialized toe pads are covered in thousands of microscopic hairs, allowing them to cling to smooth vertical surfaces, including glass, and even ceilings. Each toe also has a non-retractable claw.
Life and Habits
House geckos are nocturnal, active at night. During daylight hours, they seek shelter in crevices, under rocks, or within human structures. Their large eyes are adapted for hunting in dim light, and they are often observed near artificial light sources, preying on attracted insects.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, including moths, flies, cockroaches, crickets, and spiders. They are opportunistic predators, using quick strikes to capture prey. House geckos are known for their vocalizations, producing chirps or “chuck” sounds. These calls communicate territorial defense, mate attraction, and distress.
Reproduction occurs year-round in tropical climates, becoming seasonal elsewhere. Females lay two hard-shelled, round eggs per clutch, often in secluded locations. Moisture-resistant eggs aid dispersal. Females can store sperm for several months, allowing multiple clutches without continuous male presence, aiding colonization. Hatchlings are independent at birth and mature within six months to a year.
Living Alongside People
House geckos are found in human environments due to their adaptability and access to food, water, and shelter. Homes attract them with artificial lights that draw insects, and structures offering hiding spots and stable temperatures. Their presence is beneficial; they act as natural pest controllers, consuming household insects like mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Some find them a nuisance due to night chirps or staining droppings. However, house geckos are harmless to humans and pets. They are not venomous; their bite, if distressed or handled, is gentle and unlikely to pierce human skin. While they can carry bacteria like Salmonella, direct transmission is unlikely; good hygiene after contact is advisable. Experts encourage coexistence due to their ecological benefits in managing insect populations.