Where Do Day Geckos Live? Everything You Need to Know

Day geckos are a type of lizard belonging to the family Phelsuma. They are known for their bright green or blue coloration, with some species also featuring red, orange, or yellow markings. Day geckos have large, round eyes with vertical pupils that are specially adapted to help them see in dim light.

Behavior

Day geckos are diurnal, which means they are active during the day. They are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees and bushes. Day geckos are also territorial and can be aggressive towards other geckos of the same species.

Where Do Day Geckos Live?

Natural Habitat

Day geckos are native to Madagascar and some parts of Africa. They are found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, dry forests, and scrublands. Day geckos prefer humid environments with plenty of vegetation, as they rely on the cover provided by plants to hide from predators.

Geographic Distribution

There are over 70 species of day geckos, and their distribution varies depending on the species. Some species, such as the gold dust day gecko, are found only on specific islands in the Indian Ocean. Others, such as the Madagascar giant day gecko, are found throughout Madagascar.

Types of Day Geckos

Madagascar Giant Day Gecko

The Madagascar giant day gecko is one of the most popular species of day gecko kept as pets. They are bright green with red and blue markings and can grow up to a foot in length. These geckos are native to Madagascar and are found in rainforests and humid areas.

Gold Dust Day Gecko

The gold dust day gecko is another popular species of day gecko kept as a pet. They are small, with a maximum length of around 4 inches, and are bright green with gold or yellow markings. These geckos are native to Madagascar and are found in humid areas with plenty of vegetation.

Day Geckos as Pets

Caring for Day Geckos

Day geckos are relatively easy to care for and can make great pets for first-time reptile owners. They require a terrarium with plenty of plants and hiding spots, as well as a heat lamp to maintain a temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Day geckos are also insectivores and require a diet of crickets, mealworms, and other insects.

Habitat Requirements

When setting up a terrarium for a day gecko, it is important to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible. This means providing plenty of plants, such as pothos and ficus, as well as a substrate that retains moisture, such as coconut coir. Day geckos also require a shallow dish of water for drinking and soaking.

Threats to Day Geckos

Habitat Loss

One of the biggest threats to day geckos is habitat loss due to deforestation and human development. Many species of day geckos are found only in small areas of Madagascar, which makes them particularly vulnerable to habitat loss.

Predation

Day geckos are preyed upon by a variety of animals, including birds, snakes, and other reptiles. Their bright coloration and diurnal habits make them easy targets for predators.

Conclusion

In conclusion, day geckos are a fascinating group of lizards that are native to Madagascar and some parts of Africa. These geckos are known for their vibrant colors and active personalities, making them popular choices for pet owners. While day geckos are relatively easy to care for, they face threats in the wild due to habitat loss and predation. It is important to respect their natural habitat and take steps to protect them from these threats.

ThePetFaq Team