The common house gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus, is a small lizard frequently found in human environments globally. These adaptable reptiles are often seen scurrying across walls and ceilings, particularly after dusk. Growing to 7.5 to 15 centimeters, including their tail, these geckos are generally nocturnal and harmless.
Origin and Native Environment
The common house gecko originates from a broad region encompassing South and Southeast Asia, including parts of Near Oceania. In their native habitats, these geckos thrive in warm, humid climates, typical of tropical rainforests and coastal areas. They can be found in a variety of natural settings such as rocky outcrops, under tree bark, and within rotting logs.
These environments allow geckos to climb on trees and other vegetation. Their natural preference is for areas with abundant insects, which form their primary diet. The consistent warmth and humidity of these regions are conducive to their life cycle, allowing them to breed year-round.
Global Distribution and Habitat Expansion
From their native Asian range, Hemidactylus frenatus has become one of the most widely distributed gecko species globally. This extensive spread is largely attributed to human activities, particularly through commerce and transportation. Geckos often act as stowaways, hiding in cargo shipments, shipping containers, and even on ancient sailing vessels.
They now inhabit tropical, subtropical, and even some warm temperate zones worldwide, including the Deep South of the United States, large parts of Australia, and various countries in Central and South America, Africa, and the Middle East. Their adaptability allows them to flourish in urban and disturbed environments, often outcompeting native gecko species.
Preferred Living Spaces in Human Dwellings
House geckos are highly adapted to living alongside humans, utilizing shelter and resources within homes and other structures. They are predominantly nocturnal, resting during the day in hidden spots and becoming active at night to forage for insects.
Inside human dwellings, they seek out specific microhabitats that offer warmth, shelter, and access to prey. Common hiding spots include cracks and crevices in walls, behind furniture, under appliances like refrigerators, and in areas such as attics, basements, and wall voids. These locations provide protection from predators and stable temperatures.
A notable preference for these geckos is areas near light sources, both indoors and outdoors. While not attracted to light itself, light draws insects, their main food source. This allows the geckos to opportunistically hunt moths, cockroaches, spiders, and other invertebrates that congregate around illuminated areas. Their sticky toe pads enable them to climb effortlessly on vertical surfaces and even ceilings, positioning themselves to ambush prey.