How to Know Gecko Lizard Varieties and Types

Geckos are lizards in the Gekkonidae family, which has about 1200 species. They are able to vocalize with chirps and clicks, making them unique among lizards. Geckos are unusual for their ability to adhere to sheer surfaces such as glass. Geckos are popular pets, although they vary widely in their care requirements. The following steps will show how to identify the species of geckos.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose a desert species of gecko if you are a beginning gecko keeper. The wide temperature range of the desert couple with the scarce availability of prey makes these species much hardier.

2. Select a leopard gecko as one of the most popular species of gecko to keep as a pet. It has a cream- to yellow-colored body with black spots and is native to the deserts of the Middle East. Like most species, the leopard gecko remains in underground burrows during the day and comes out at night to hunt.

3. Identify the African fat-tailed gecko. This gecko is another desert species that is easy to take care of and can live for days on the fat that is stores in its tail.

4. Observe a day gecko. These are the most popular of the tropical geckos and are primarily active during the day, unlike most other types of geckos. They generally have brilliant red, green or blue coloration that is used for recognition and camouflage.

5. Examine a flying gecko. This genus does not actually fly, but it is an extremely capable glider. The membranes around its limbs, neck, trunk and tail are used to generate lift and its tail helps control the fall.

Resources

• Learn more about geckos at Gekkota.