Reptile · GBIF taxon 2447367
Tokay Gecko
Gekko geckoAlso 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
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Cockroaches
- 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
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyGekkonidae
- GenusGekko
- SpeciesGekko gecko
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- 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.
Frequent Companion Vengolis / CC BY-SA 3.0 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Close Relative Sundar / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Paolo Tonon / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
Image unavailableGenus Relative
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Emerald Kingdom
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