Geckos

Southeast Asia Lizards

Geckos are probably the most recognisable lizard species in Southeast Asia. Their hardiness, small-size and characteristics have enabled them to adapt to a variety of disturbed habitats such as urban areas and secondary forests. Hence, geckos are a ubiquitous sight in the tropics of Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Borneo and Indonesia, often found deep in the rainforest or the blacony of a high-rise apartment in the city.

Most of Malaysia's gecko species possess special toe pads that enable them to cling to vertical and even horizontal surfaces. However, this ability is negated completely by the presence of water where their toe pads adhere to, which provides a method of catching them to be used as feeders. Geckos are also charecterised by their cries which range from loud 'tuks tuks' to sharp chirping noises. Geckos belonging to the Pytchozoon group have a special ability to glide on air currents with the use of enlarged skin flaps along their feet, flanks and tail. A few other species can grow to notable sizes such as the tokay gecko and green eyed gecko.