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Common Name:
Gecko - Zulu
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Common Name:  Gecko - Zulu

Other Common Names:  Amerafrican House Gecko, African House Gecko, Phantom Gecko, Cosmopolitan House Gecko, Tropical House Gecko, Moreau's Tropical House Gecko

Scientific Name:  Hemidactylus mabouia  (Full Taxonomy)

Group:  Gecko

Origin or Range:  Middle East

Relative Size:  Smaller Than Average  
    (as compared to other lizards)

Average Lifespan:  ??? year(s)

Compatibility:  Average   
    (as compared to other lizards)

Category:  Reptiles » Lizards
Animal Description:  

The Zulu Gecko is a species of lizard that has so widely colonized the world that it is found on several continents. World travelers have been surprised to find the Zulu Geckos they are accustomed to seeing in their home regions, on continents thousands of miles away!

Highly adaptable Zulu Geckos may often be seen dwelling near human habitations, where they eat insects that are attracted by lights at night. They are usually seen on walls or ceilings. Nocturnal Zulu Geckos are good climbers and are arboreal when they are not living in human settlements. They are hardy when cared for properly and can make good pets for beginning lizard keepers.

Usually growing to a length between four and six inches, Zulu Geckos have well developed pads on their toes that assist them in climbing. Although they may be shades of light brown or light pink in color, many have an almost white hue. This is probably the reason why Zulu Geckos are sometimes known as Phantom Geckos. Although most of their scales are of a granular type, some tubercular scales are scattered over their bodies.

Zulu Geckos are known by a number of other names, usually reflecting their geographical locations. They are found in almost every subtropical or tropical area of the world, appearing in the Americas, Africa, and parts of Asia, including a number of islands. They have been spread via ships or other modes of transportation to colonize these ranges. Zulu Geckos probably originated in the Middle East.

Specific Care Information: Relative Care Ease: Relatively Easy

Usually one or two Zulu Geckos can do well in a 10 to 15-gallon terrarium with a vertically oriented set up. They should be allowed a hiding place and plenty of climbing opportunities. These may be rocks or live plants. Because they are such good climbers, the terrarium should have a secure lid to prevent escape. Usually a screen may assist in ventilating the tank. The enclosure should be misted daily, as Zulu Geckos lick moisture from plant leaves and from the sides of the enclosure. They should not be exposed to direct light, since they are nocturnal. Temperatures should remain between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime, with the higher temperature focused on the basking spot. The nighttime temperature should remain around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Zulu Geckos should be fed a variety of insects such as crickets, moths, flies, waxworms, and superworms. Insects should be dusted with a calcium supplement.

Breeding and Propagation: Relative Breeding Ease: Uncertain

Usually, several female Zulu Geckos will use the same nesting spot to lay their eggs. As many as 50 eggs have been found in such communal nests in the wild.

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Friday, 16 May 2008