The Common Gecko, A Beautiful Reptile Typical Of Our Cities
In this article we present the common gecko (scientific name tarentola mauritanica ), one of the few reptiles that adapts to living in cities. It can be found in gardens and even inside homes, where it is usually tolerated as it helps fight insects.
The common gecko has been able to expand its territory
Belonging to the Phillodactylidae family, this harmless reptile for humans is distributed from North Africa to Europe. It is also found in Italy, Spain and Greece.
As has happened throughout history with many species, intentionally or accidentally, the common gecko arrived on ships that were headed for other destinations. In this case, on the American continent.
Its natural habitat is the coastal areas with a dry and warm climate, where the sun beats strongly. But the common gecko’s territory also extends to inland areas, which are not too cold. It prefers rocks, gorges, caves, trees and sometimes takes refuge under stones and loves to hide in cracks.
It can be found both in garden houses both in the city and in the countryside, as long as there are the arthropods it feeds on.
Physical characteristics of the common gecko
Among the physical characteristics of the Mauritanian Tarentola we can underline:
- The robust physiognomy.
- It measures between 12 and 16 centimeters in length.
- His body is flattened.
- His skin is full of warts, dorsal rows made up of small tubers or scales.
- The tail is long and regenerates itself if it is detached from it.
- It has a broad head, which tends to be triangular.
- His eyes are prominent, with vertical pupils dilating in low light conditions.
- The skin varies in color, depending on the light and where it is located. The back may be greyish, brown or black and may have specks. The belly is white or yellow.
- The paws have adhesive pads that act as suckers and allow it to walk on walls and ceilings.
- He has fingernails on only two of his five fingers (the third and fourth).
Behavior of the Mauritanian tarentola
The common gecko is usually most active during the day. During the first hours of the day it usually gets the sun. In colder regions, it hibernates. During the summer it is possible to see it more frequently during the day.
In urban areas it is common to see him approaching lamps and quickly running over roofs and walls in search of insects to eat. It is a territorial animal and, although it is usually quiet, it makes quite high-pitched sounds when fighting, especially during the mating period.
The female lays two or three spherical eggs about one centimeter in diameter, twice a year. He deposits them under stones, in the bark of trees or in cracks in the walls. The incubation time is usually 14 weeks.
A reptile with a bad reputation
Fortunately, the common gecko is not an endangered species. Cohabitation with man usually works in his favor and allows him to extend the territory.
Among the legends circulating about this reptile is one that its saliva could cause it to become bald. The truth is that the Mauritanian Tarentola does not even spit and today it is even chosen as a pet. In captivity it can live up to eight years.
