Luther LarryTexas, known for its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is home to a variety of reptiles, including an array of gecko species. Geckos, characterized by their distinctive vocalizations and adhesive toe pads, are fascinating creatures with unique adaptations. In this article, we will explore 12 types of geckos that call Texas home, highlighting their characteristics, habitats, and behaviors.
12 Types Of Geckos In Texas
1. Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis):
Recognized by its striking bands, the Texas Banded Gecko is a nocturnal species that primarily resides in arid regions of West Texas.
Habitat: Sandy deserts, rocky areas.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 12 Types Of Goats In Texas
2. Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus):
Small, adaptable, and often found around human habitats, the Common House Gecko has a wide distribution globally.
Habitat: Urban areas, homes, and buildings.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 8 Types Of Group Homes In Texas
3. Mediterranean Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus):
Recognizable by its translucent skin and large eyes, the Mediterranean Gecko is another species often found near human dwellings.
Habitat: Urban areas, homes, and structures.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 12 Types Of Gnats In Texas
4. Coleman’s Banded Gecko (Coleonyx switaki):
Endemic to the Trans-Pecos region, Coleman’s Banded Gecko features distinctive bands and a relatively small size.
Habitat: Arid and rocky landscapes.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 20 Types Of Hawks In Texas
5. Turnip-tailed Gecko (Thecadactylus rapicauda):
Native to the Americas, this gecko is known for its robust body and distinctive turnip-shaped tail.
Habitat: Subtropical and tropical regions, often found in trees.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Watch Also: Black Night Leopard Gecko Tail Drop
Read Also: 20 Types Of Grass Weeds In Texas
6. Ringtail Gecko (Cyrtodactylus tuberculatus):
With a unique ringed pattern on its tail, the Ringtail Gecko is a small, ground-dwelling species.
Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
7. Golden Spotted Gecko (Gonatodes albogularis):
A colorful species, the Golden Spotted Gecko is known for its golden markings and is often found in tropical and subtropical habitats.
Habitat: Forested areas, tropical regions.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 12 Types Of Geese In Texas
8. Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx reticulatus):
Resembling the Texas Banded Gecko, this species is found in the Big Bend region and exhibits a distinctive reticulated pattern.
Habitat: Arid and rocky landscapes.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 12 Types Of Hummingbirds In Texas
9. Pale-striped Ground Gecko (Cnemaspis paluma):
A relatively small species with pale stripes along its body, the Pale-striped Ground Gecko is found in rocky terrains.
Habitat: Rock outcrops, cliffs.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 5 Types Of Holly Trees In Texas
10. Flat-tailed House Gecko (Cosymbotus platyurus):
Characterized by its flattened tail, this gecko species is well-adapted to climbing on various surfaces.
Habitat: Urban areas, forests.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 5 Types Of Centipedes In Texas
11. Satanic Leaf-tailed Gecko (Uroplatus phantasticus):
While primarily found in Madagascar, this exotic gecko has occasionally been introduced to Texas through the pet trade.
Habitat: Forested areas, trees.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Watch Also: The 5 Worst pet Geckos and 5 Better Option You’ll Love
12. Rough-tailed Gecko (Cyrtopodion scabrum):
A small, ground-dwelling species, the Rough-tailed Gecko is adapted to arid environments and has a rough texture on its tail.
Habitat: Arid regions, rocky landscapes.
Behavior: Nocturnal, insectivorous.
Read Also: 7 Types Of Car Titles In Texas
Types of Geckos in Texas:
Texas is home to various gecko species, including the Texas Banded Gecko, Common House Gecko, Mediterranean Gecko, Coleman’s Banded Gecko, Turnip-tailed Gecko, Ringtail Gecko, Golden Spotted Gecko, Texas Reticulated Gecko, Pale-striped Ground Gecko, Flat-tailed House Gecko, Satanic Leaf-tailed Gecko, and Rough-tailed Gecko.
Do Texas Geckos Eat Scorpions?
Many Texas geckos, such as the Texas Banded Gecko and others, are insectivores and may consume scorpions as part of their diet.
Read Also: 8 Types Of Custody In Texas
What Brings Geckos into the House?
Geckos are often attracted to houses due to the presence of insects and suitable hiding spots. Outdoor lighting may also attract insects, subsequently drawing geckos seeking food.
Watch Also: How to breed Leopard Geckos
Most Popular Type of Gecko:
The Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) is among the most widespread and commonly encountered geckos globally. Its adaptability to urban environments makes it a popular and frequently observed species.
Read Also: 9 Types Of Caterpillars In Texas
What Do Geckos Eat?
Geckos are primarily insectivores, feeding on a diet of various small invertebrates such as insects and spiders. Some larger species may also consume small vertebrates.
What Do Texas Geckos Eat?
Texas geckos share similar dietary habits, primarily preying on insects and arachnids. Their diet may include beetles, moths, spiders, and, in some cases, scorpions.
Read Also: 6 Types Of Cactus In Texas
Do Geckos Eat Snakes?
Geckos are not known to eat snakes. Their diet primarily consists of smaller invertebrates, and they are not equipped to tackle larger prey like snakes.
Do Texas Geckos Bite?
Generally, geckos are not aggressive, and they do not pose a significant threat to humans. While they may bite if they feel threatened, their bites are typically harmless and rarely break the skin.
Read Also: 5 Types Of Catfish In Texas
What Animal Kills a Scorpion?
Animals such as certain species of birds, mammals (like hedgehogs), and other arachnids may prey on scorpions. Additionally, some gecko species, including those in Texas, may consume scorpions as part of their diet.
Can a Gecko Be a Pet?
Yes, certain gecko species, such as the Leopard Gecko, Crested Gecko, and African Fat-tailed Gecko, are popular as pets. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in captivity with proper care.
Read Also: 5 Types Of Bermuda Grass In Texas
Most Aggressive Gecko:
The Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is known for its territorial and aggressive behavior. While strikingly beautiful, they can be challenging to handle and are not recommended for novice reptile keepers.
Why Is Gecko So Expensive?
The cost of geckos as pets can vary depending on factors such as species rarity, color morphs, and breeding difficulty. Some geckos, especially those with unique or rare characteristics, may be more expensive due to their desirability among reptile enthusiasts. Additionally, breeding and maintaining certain gecko species in captivity can be labor-intensive, contributing to higher prices in the pet market.
Read Also: 8 Types Of Bugs In Texas
Conclusion:
Texas provides a rich and varied habitat for geckos, each species adapting to its own unique niche. Whether in the arid deserts of West Texas or the urban areas of major cities, geckos play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding and appreciating the diversity of these fascinating creatures contribute to the conservation and preservation of Texas’ unique ecosystems.
Read Also: 6 Types Of Cows In Texas
3 Replies to “12 Types Of Geckos In Texas”