Species · GBIF taxon 2447367
Tokay Gecko
Gekko geckoAlso known as Spotted Tokay Gecko, True Gecko
These large, colorful geckos are famous for their loud, persistent mating calls that sound like 'to-kay'. Clad in blue-grey skin dotted with bright orange spots, they are highly territorial and fiercely defend their arboreal homes. While native to Asian rainforests, they have adapted well to urban environments, often hunting insects near outdoor light fixtures.
NocturnalArborealVocal
Licensed reference(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 →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Spiders
- Small lizards
Predators
- Snakes
- Birds of prey
- Large carnivorous mammals
ThreatsPet trade exploitation, habitat loss, and traditional medicine trade
HabitatsRainforests, tropical cliffs, and human dwellings
Life span8 to 15 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyGekkonidae
- SpeciesGekko gecko
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Delivers a powerful, painful bite when cornered; do not attempt to handle.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses strong jaws and sharp teeth capable of delivering a painful bite that can break the skin and may result in infection.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a large, robust gecko with a blue-grey body covered in bright orange or reddish spots.
- What to do
- Observe from a safe distance and never corner or attempt to pick up a wild individual.
Responsible observation
- Listening: Listen for the loud, repetitive 'to-kay' call echoing from trees or walls at night.
- Spotting: Scan vertical surfaces, tree trunks, and ceilings near outdoor lights after dark.
- Handling: Avoid touching or cornering them, as they will bite and refuse to let go.
Competitor Vengolis / CC BY-SA 3.0 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Frequent Companion (c) Cheongweei Gan, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Cheongweei Gan · cc-by
Close Relative
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