Fauna
Reptile

Tokay Gecko

Gekko gecko

Also known as Tokay, Tukko, Spotted Gecko

Tokay geckos are large nocturnal lizards recognized by their striking slate-blue skin dotted with orange-red spots and their remarkably powerful bite. Males defend territories aggressively and communicate across rainforests and residential walls with a booming two-syllable call that gives the species its name. Specialized microscopic hairs on their expanded toe pads allow these agile climbers to walk effortlessly upside down on smooth glass or rock faces.

NocturnalArborealVocal
Tokay Gecko reference1 / 7
(c) Bernard DUPONT, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyCockroaches, Moths, Centipedes
Predators
  • Large Snakes
  • Raptors
  • Domestic Cats
ThreatsOvercollection for traditional medicine, exotic pet trade, habitat fragmentation
HabitatsTropical rainforests, rocky cliffs, rural human dwellings
Life span10–15 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyGekkonidae
  2. GenusGekko
  3. SpeciesGekko gecko
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Delivers a powerful bite when cornered; maintain space and avoid trying to handle wild individuals.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses powerful jaw muscles that inflict deep, persistent bites when threatened or cornered.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by its blue-grey body with bright orange-red spots and large vertical pupil eyes.
What to do
Maintain a distance of at least one meter and never attempt to pick up or trap a wild individual.
Responsible observation
  • Listen for Calls: Males produce a loud barking call late at night to establish territory and attract mates.
  • Look Near Outdoor Lights: Scan exterior walls near artificial light sources after sunset where insects gather.
  • Keep Hands Away: Avoid cornering or attempting to grasp them, as their jaw pressure is exceptionally strong.
Related species
Keep collecting in Fauna

Found in Collections

Species set Pro

Emerald Kingdom

Tokay Gecko is found in this collection. Identify it in Fauna to fill this slot and continue your progress.

Unlock to track progress

Continue in the app
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?

Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.

Checking your Fauna account…