House Geckos

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House geckos are common residents in Sri Lanka, often found in homes and buildings. While some may find them unsettling, these fascinating creatures are generally beneficial insectivores that help control household pests.

Identification

Physical description: Small to medium-sized lizards with a slender build, varying in color from grey to brown to yellow. They have four clawed toes on each foot, allowing them to climb smooth surfaces. Their bulging eyes lack eyelids and have a transparent membrane to keep them moist. Most house gecko species in Sri Lanka have a distinctive fan-shaped toepad at the end of each toe.
Habitat: House geckos prefer warm, humid environments and readily inhabit houses, apartments, and other human structures. They are often found near light sources where they can hunt for insects.
Feeding habits: Insectivores, feeding on a variety of insects like flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and moths. They are excellent hunters, using their sticky tongues to capture prey.

Behaviour

Life cycle: Like most reptiles, geckos lay eggs. The female lays a small clutch of leathery eggs in sheltered locations, and the young hatch independently after a few weeks.
Activity patterns: Primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to hunt for insects. However, they may also be active during the day, especially in dimly lit areas.

Signs of Infestation

Visual signs: You might see the actual geckos themselves on walls, ceilings, or around lights. Look for droppings, which are small, dark, and often found near areas where geckos frequent.
Behavioral signs: Gecko calls, which can be chirps or clicking sounds, are a sign of their presence. You might also notice fewer household insects as geckos effectively control their populations.

Living with House Geckos

House geckos are generally harmless and provide a natural form of pest control. However, if their presence is unwanted, here are some humane deterrents:

Exclusion: Seal potential entry points like cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
Habitat modification: Remove clutter and debris where geckos might hide. Address moisture issues in your home, as geckos prefer humid environments.
Natural repellents: Some people believe certain scents like lemongrass or peppermint oil can deter geckos. However, the effectiveness of these methods is debatable.

Remember, geckos are more beneficial than bothersome. If they’re not causing problems, consider letting them be – they might just be keeping your home free of unwanted insects!

809/36, Negombo Road, Mabola, Wattala

+94 77 368 8979

info@ceylonpestcontrol.com

House Geckos

Identification

Behaviour

Signs of Infestation

Living with House Geckos

Need Help?

Identification

Behaviour

Signs of Infestation

Living with House Geckos

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