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Geckos
Geckos are small lizards
with big heads and big eyes.
There are about 800 different kinds of geckos.
Geckos live in places
where the weather is warm.
Geckos eat beetles
and all kinds of insects.
Geckos are a family of lizards. There are around 800 different species, or kinds, of gecko.
They are from 3.5 - 35 centimetres in length. Their thin skin is covered with small bumps or scales and is usually grey or brown.
A young leopard gecko
Some species can change colour to protect themselves. Most species can also drop their tails when threatened or attacked. A new, shorter tail grows back in its place.
Most geckos have wide toes which are covered with flaps of bristle covered skin. The bristles help the animals to walk on smooth surfaces.
Where they live
Geckos are widespread throughout warmer parts of the world in
habitats including deserts and rainforests. Some
live on the ground while other climb trees and live there.
What they eat
Geckos
hunt prey usually at night. The pupils of their large eyes open wide and help
them see in the dark. Geckos eat insects of all kinds. Larger species
of gecko such as the Caledonian gecko can catch and eat young
lizards, mice and small birds.
Did you know? Most geckos don't have eyelids and they keep their eyes clean and moist by washing them with their tongues.
Life Cycle
After mating with a male gecko, most female geckos lay soft-shelled
eggs which soon harden. They are sticky and are left stuck to
the sides of cracks and holes in walls or under bark and stones
by the females.
Did you know? There are some species of geckos in New Zealand which give birth to live young.
What is their
status?
Geckos are common. They are harmless to humans and are not endangered.
If you use any
of this information in your own work acknowledge this source in
your bibliography like this:
Geckos
(2002).
[Online], Available: www.kidcyber.com.au
updated December 2006