House Gecko Hemidactylus turcicus
Identification
This small gecko has a pale translucent body with large eyes and adhesive toe pads. It is nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Location
Introduced and rare
Size
3 to 5 inches
Diet
It feeds on insects and small invertebrates attracted to lights.
Habitat
It occurs in scattered introduced populations in Ohio.
Activity Period
May to September
Behavior
It is adapted to human structures and often found on walls and ceilings. It tolerates warm indoor environments. It is most active at night near lights.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in warm months and females lay small clutches.
Population
The population is small and localized.
History
It is not native and survives mainly in heated structures.
Human Interactions
It is harmless and easily handled.
Facts
It is one of the few nocturnal lizards in Ohio.
Sources
ODNR academic sources
Insects spiders small invertebrates | Buildings walls warm structures | Urban areas